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all seated on the ground,

an angel of the Lord came down,

and glory shone around.

She stepped into the front of the shop and lit it fully. As light flooded the room, so too did her spirits rise. She had much to be thankful for. Her walking dress would soon be complete—an exquisite piece of fine workmanship. Her seamstresses were thriving, the shop’s reputation growing. Mr. Johnson had just confirmed her business was on course, and Caroline could take pride in her success. Little Annie Greer was healthy and bright, and Mrs. Greer’s strength was returning.

‘Fear not,’ said he, for mighty dread

had seized their troubled mind;

‘glad tidings of great joy I bring

to you and all mankind.’

And she herself had stayed the course—no man had tempted her since Lord Saunton. She had held fast to her vow, maintaining the dignity she had once cast aside.

‘To you, in David’s town, this day

is born of David’s line

a Savior, who is Christ the Lord;

and this shall be the sign:’

She might be alone this Christmas Eve, but she had a new life, built on integrity and hard work. And she could sing as loudly as she pleased in her empty, candlelit shop.

‘The heavenly Babe you there shall find

to human view displayed,

all meanly wrapped in swathing bands,

and in a manger laid.’

She returned to the back room to prepare her tea. While the kettle boiled, she found the biscuits she had purchased earlier from Mr. Andrews and arranged them on a small plate. She ought to return to her lodgings, but her landlady had left to visit family in Bath, and the thought of sitting in a quiet house alone was less appealing than remaining in her bright, warm shop.

Thus spoke the angel. Suddenly

appeared a shining throng

of angels praising God, who thus

addressed their joyful song:

The townsfolk here in Chatternwell had accepted her with open arms—that was another blessing she had not counted yet!

Raising her voice, she sang the last verse loudly as she set out her teacup. Her loneliness was a choice. A penance for her past mistakes. She had acquired many fine acquaintances here in town, and her work was all she needed.

‘All glory be to God on high,

and to the earth be peace;

to those on whom his favor rests

goodwill shall never cease.’

Silence descended once more. Biting her lip, she tried to think of something else to sing. Opening her mouth, she⁠—