And so these three went slowly along the beautiful paths of spirit-land, conversing as they went.  The hazel eyes of the brown-haired stranger opened in wide astonishment at what her sisters told her.  Sometimes she asked questions, sometimes she shook her head in disbelief.  She had been a “worldly” woman, she told them, never thinking that there would be any life other than the one she was living while on the earth; and so she had shaped her daily conduct by that narrow standard.  Her earth-life had ended sadly, and existence had been bitter ever since, “Restless and hopeless, I have wandered for a long time,” she said.  “I have seen you two a number of times and have heard you talk to the women.  Your words seemed to bring to me a glimpse of something better, but I never had the courage to speak to you until now.”

Signe put her arms around her, drew her close, and kissed her cheek.  “Let us do you all the good we can,” she said.  “We are going now to attend a meeting where my husband is to speak.  Come with us.”

Rachel linked her arm into that of the stranger’s who willingly accompanied them.  “Is your husband also a preacher?” she asked of Rachel.

“I have no husband,” was the reply.  “I did not—­I mean, he did not find me, has not found me yet.”  Rachel was somewhat confused but she smiled as ever.

“She means,” explained Signe, “that she did not marry while in earth-life, for the very good reason that she had no chance—­”

“None such that I could accept,” added Rachel.  Then as the newly-found friend looked at her inquiringly, she continued: 

“I have always believed, and I believe now, that I have a mate somewhere, but he has not yet been revealed.  Frequently I asked the Lord about it in earth-life, and the answer by the spirit always was ’Wait, patiently wait’; so I am still waiting.”

“And you still have faith,” asked the stranger, “that the God of heaven will answer your prayers and bring about all things for the best?”

“Why, certainly.”

“I wish I could believe that.  Had I in earth life had some such belief to anchor to, perhaps I would not have made so many mistakes.  I married twice, and they were both mistakes.  The one chance I had of getting a man—­I mean, one who does not belie the word—­I threw away, because he was poor in worldly goods; but I suffered through my foolish errors....  I have heard of people praying about many things, but never have I heard of the Lord being asked about love affairs.”

“That may be true,” said Signe; “and it shows how foolish we were.  Why should people importune the Lord about small trials and petty ailments, and at the same time neglect to ask His guidance on matters of love and marriage which make or mar one’s life?”

There seemed to be no immediate answer to this query, so the three passed along in silence.  Presently the newcomer spoke again: 

“I am getting more light and hope since I associate with you two.  I believe my faith is being kindled, and O, it feels so good to get a little firm footing.”