“And here’s a gift for her,” said Mr. Casey.  “Take it and buy her a fur-lined coat,” at which everyone shouted, for poor Mr. Casey’s gifts had all been so comfortable and warm.

“Niver mind,” he laughed, “I bet she’ll like one.  And give her me compliments and a Merry Christmas.  And let me have your address, sir.”

CHAPTER XVII

CHRISTMAS DAY

It was a typical Christmas day.  There was even snow on the ground.  The pretty limousine stood before the Hollisters’ door and a well-groomed good-looking chauffeur was taken in and presented to Mrs. Hollister, his future mistress.  Grandmother, in her handsome new cloak, and Aunt Susan with Mr. Casey, took the first ride.  Mr. Casey was in high spirits over Nora’s choice.

“Shure they till me that he has a great future.”

“Of course he has,” said Grandmother.  “Why, he’s advanced to the operating room and he is in line to be second assisting surgeon.  Think, Mr. Casey, of the lives he may save.  I think Nora has made a wise choice, and he cared for her for herself—­not for her money—­for he’s always said that his wife’s money should be settled on herself—­that only the husband should pay the bills.  And Nora, dear child, has improved so.  She’s grown so handsome and has a face full of character.”

“That’s so, ma’am.  I would that her poor mother—­God rest her soul—­could but see her.”

“She does,” said Aunt Susan.  “I firmly believe that our loved ones see us and are near us constantly.  Wait a bit; I have to stop,” and Mr. Casey got out at a market.

“Now what is he up to?” said Grandmother.  “Susan, he’s the kindest-hearted and most generous man that I ever knew.”

They could catch a glimpse of him now and then.  Presently he emerged with an immense basket containing a large turkey, a pair of ducks, and paper bags of vegetables, and in one corner a smaller basket of delicious fruit and a couple of wreaths.  From a card he read an address to the chauffeur, who placed the Christmas basket beside him.

“Now where is he going, I wonder?” said Aunt Susan.  “Perhaps some of his poor relations.”

The chauffeur drove up before a cheap flat, alighted, and left the basket.  Returning he nodded “yes” to Mr. Casey.

Mr. Casey said in a hesitating manner: 

“The young piano player,—­I thought I’d surprise him and his mother.  Mrs. Hollister speaks highly of the mother and I need just such a young man with me in Columbus.  I think I can find an opening for him in my office; if not, in the office of some of my friends.  There are too many young men in New York; there are not enough places for them all.  Now wid me they have a chance to advance, and when I’m gone they’ll take my place.  I’ve no son.”