“So you have heard of it then?  I am very glad.”  There was a pleased expression in David’s eyes.  It gave him much satisfaction to know that the news of what was being done at the falls had extended beyond Creekdale.

“Oh, yes, every one has heard about the great undertaking which is going on at Break Neck Falls,” the artist replied.  “I have read much about it in the city papers, and only recently there was a long article describing certain phases of the work and what would be accomplished.  I have the paper with me.  Here it is, if you care to read it,” and the artist drew from his pocket a carefully-folded newspaper, and handed it to the old man.

With much eagerness David took it in his hands, unfolded it and ran his eyes quickly over the article with the big headlines, “A Gigantic Undertaking.”  Betty stepped close to his side and began to read as well.  Her animated face and sparkling eyes showed plainly the keen interest she took in the whole affair, and several times she gave expression to exclamations of delight.

“Isn’t it great!” she cried, when she had finished.  “And what a lot they tell about you, Mr. David, and how you had that thing in your head for so long when you were very poor.”

“Yes, girl,” David replied, “and did you notice what is said about the benefit it will be to the city and the whole country?”

In their intense excitement they had forgotten all about the artist.  But as they talked like two happy children he was watching them very closely, especially the old man.  In his eyes there was a peculiar half-gloating expression, while a partly-suppressed sinister smile lurked about the corners of his mouth.

“May we show this paper to Miss Lois?” Betty asked, turning suddenly toward the artist.  As she did so, she started, for intuitively she saw something in the man’s face which frightened her.  Whatever it was, it instantly dispelled the happiness which possessed her.  The artist noticed this, and it annoyed him.  He shrugged his shoulder and gave a short laugh.

“Yes, you may keep the paper,” he said.  “I am through with it.  But I must get on with my work now.”

They stood and watched him as he walked away carrying with him his easel and camp-stool.

“I am afraid of him,” Betty whispered to her companion.  Then she shivered as if cold.

“Why, what’s the matter?” David asked in surprise.  “What makes you afraid of that man?  He is only a harmless artist, and he was very kind to us this morning.  I feel most grateful for the paper he has given us.”

“I know that, but I don’t want to see him again,” the girl replied.  “I saw something in his eyes which I don’t like.  I can’t explain it, but it makes me afraid of him.  I hope he will go away soon.”

“Tut, girl, that is all nonsense,” David chided.  “It is just a notion on your part.  I like him well enough for a stranger.  What harm can he do us?”