Obadiah was filled with a comfortable egotism. "I have accomplished a whole lot," he boasted. His mind was upon his commercial success and the wealth he had accumulated. "I'm not through," he bragged. He became thoughtful as he dwelt upon certain fertile fields awaiting his financial plough. His jaw set. He had rivals who would contest his tillage. He would fight as he had always fought. His eyes glistened beneath his shaggy brows as he sensed the fray. The conversation languished as they ate their dessert, but Obadiah's pride of accomplishment had not departed. "I am going to do bigger things than ever before," he exulted. "When you are older you will realize what I have done for you," he explained as they went out on the porch. For a time the girl and the old man followed their own thoughts while the fire-flies sparkled and gleamed about the lawn as if they were the flashlights of a fairy patrol. Emma Virginia was thinking of her father's words. He was going to do more for her. She must certainly share her blessings. "Daddy dear, do you mind if I help some one?" she asked gently. "Back on that?" he demanded with a note of sharpness. She gave an emphatic little nod. "It is very important. I--I--can't tell you now, why," she hesitated. "I should feel much better, though." "You are not sick, are you?" Obadiah worried. "Oh, no indeed, perfectly well. Only, I am sure that I would be much happier if I could do something for someone else. I don't know whom. That doesn't make any difference." "What a strange idea!" It seemed to bother Obadiah. "You want to help someone but you don't know whom." He considered a moment. "Here's my advice. Help somebody who can help you." "Now you are teasing me, Daddy?" she protested. "I am really serious about this. I want to be of more use in the world." Her voice was very soft and gentle now. "I know that I should share my blessings and I want to do it. It is such a comfort to talk things over with you, Daddy dearest." She moved quietly over to him and seated herself upon his lap. As she touched him, he jumped. "Gracious, you startled me so, Virginia. I was asleep." "Please, Daddy, don't mind," she whispered, "I'll be quiet as a mouse." Almost grudgingly, he let her settle herself and drop her head against his shoulder. In a moment his head slipped down against the soft hair of the girl and Obadiah dozed anew. She murmured softly, "It was so easy to explain to you. Serena wouldn't understand, I am afraid. All of your life, Daddy, you have been helping other people." "Whom?" asked Obadiah in alarm, starting up and shaking the girl's head from his shoulder. "Daddy, wake up. You were asleep while I was talking to you." She tried to kiss him as he rubbed his eyes, but his arms were in her way. "You are such a comfort, Daddy. I wish I could be like you," she said softly.