Ethel Venniker was to return to Helmsbury on the day following the mothers’ tea-party. Gerald was to accompany her home, and go from Helmsbury to Oxford. Before she left Kestercham, two of the mothers to whom she had sung brought her a wreath of holly leaves and berries, saying, in the name of them all, that they wanted so much to thank her for singing, and did not know how they could express their thanks but in this way. Her last act while she was at Kestercham was to go with Gerald (unknown to Mr. and Mrs. Eversley) into the churchyard. There he showed her his mother’s grave under the yew tree. It was a lovely spot, even in the winter. They stood looking at the lettered headstone. ‘Poor Gerald,’ she said, tenderly, ‘you do not remember her at all?’ ‘No,’ he answered, ‘she died when I was born.’ ‘I wonder if she was like mamma,’ said Ethel. The thought had not occurred to Gerald before, but he answered, ‘I think she must have been--I mean, I hope so.’ As they turned away, Miss Venniker added, ‘I do not think life would be possible without mamma.’ Gerald Eversley tore himself away from Helmsbury for a critical event. It was no less than his examination for a fellowship, which was to take place almost immediately. A fellowship is the natural consummation of a distinguished academical life. Lady Venniker and Ethel were alike anxious that he should win it. They were only afraid that the disturbing influence of his engagement had somewhat interfered with his work. He had now obtained, through Lord Venniker’s mediation, a nomination for the Treasury. His marriage with Ethel Venniker was to take place soon after Easter. They were to begin their married life in Lord Venniker’s London house. Gerald Eversley spent at Oxford the fortnight immediately preceding the examination for the fellowship. As soon as it was over, he went back to Helmsbury. He was sitting in the boudoir with Lady Venniker and Ethel, when a telegram announcing his election was placed in his hands. It was easy to see by the flush on his face that he had been successful. He handed the telegram to Lady Venniker, and she pressed his hand affectionately. ‘Gerald,’ said Ethel, ‘this is the greatest prize you have ever won, is it not?’ ‘No,’ said Gerald, ‘I think I have won a greater prize than a fellowship,’ as he stooped and kissed her.