The entrance of Kate closed the interview.  In a little while, Ellis, after shaving himself, and in every possible way improving his appearance, left the house and went direct to the store of Wilkinson.

“Henry!  Is it possible!” exclaimed the latter, in surprise, when Ellis stood before him.

“In my right mind again,” was the calm, but firmly spoken answer.

“How glad I am to hear you say so!” And Wilkinson grasped the hand of his old friend, and shook it warmly.

“You remember your promise of yesterday?” said Ellis.  He spoke seriously.

“To get you a good situation?”

“Yes.”

“I have not forgotten my word, Henry; and will keep it.  You are a good accountant?”

“I am.”

“This morning my book-keeper notified me of his intention to leave as soon as I could supply his place.  If you will take the situation at seven hundred and fifty dollars a year, it is open for you.”

“John Wilkinson!” exclaimed Ellis, seizing the hand of his friend, and exhibiting much agitation.  “Are you indeed in earnest?”

“I never was more so in my life,” was replied.

“Then, indeed the day has broken!” said Ellis, with emotion.  “When will you want me to begin?” he asked after a short period of silence.

“Now,” replied Wilkinson.

“Now, did you say?”

“Yes.  I have work that needs attention at once.  When will you come?”

“A good beginning never can be made too early.  Now.”

Wilkinson turned, and the two men walked back to a vacant desk.  A number of accounts and letters lay thereon, and, as Wilkinson began to enter into some explanation in regard to them, Ellis took up a pen and laid the point of it on a sheet of paper.  The nervous tremor of his hand showed him to be in no condition for the task upon which he was about entering.  Wilkinson comprehended this in a moment, and a fear lest the drunkard’s delirium should follow so sudden a withdrawal of stimulant from the system of Ellis, sent a chill through his feelings.  Instead of putting him to the desk at once, he determined, on the instant, to employ him at more active work about the store for a few weeks, until, if he kept to his good resolution, some degree of firmness was restored to his shattered nerves.  In agreement with this humane purpose he acted.

With what trembling anxiety did Mrs. Ellis await the return of her husband at dinner-time!  The hours wore slowly away, and, at last, her watchful ear caught the sound of his footsteps.  She scarcely breathed until the door opened.  One glance sufficed.  All was well.  How glad was the impulse with which her stilled heart went on again!  Tears of joy bedewed her face, when he related the good fortune that had attended his call on Wilkinson.

“Yes, yes,” said he, when he had told her all, and glancing around the room as he spoke.  “This desert place shall blossom as the rose.  I have said it, and I will keep my word.”