nothing short of sin. He went back into the house, and listened at the door of the room. Silence still reigned unbroken, and with noiseless steps he again walked away.
"He is still sleeping," he whispered to his sister. "Just think what would have happened if we had still had that bird. . . . He would n't have been able to sleep a wink."
"Ephraim, why do you remind me of it?" cried Viola with a fresh outburst of tears. "Where is the little bird now, I wonder? . . ."
Ephraim sat down beside his sister, and took her hand in his. Thus they remained seated for some time, unable to find a word of comfort for each other.
At length movements were heard. Ephraim sprang to his feet and once more approached the door to listen.
"He is awake!" he softly said to Viola, and slowly opening the door, he entered the room.
Ascher was walking up and down with heavy tread.
"Do you feel refreshed after your sleep, father?" Ephraim asked timidly.
Ascher stood still, and confronted his son. His face was still very flushed, but his eyes had lost their glassy stare; his glance was clear and steady.
"Ephraim, my son," he began, in a kindly, al-
