George sent word to Father Ed, asking if he could pay him a visit and bring the children with him. He would have left them with Mrs. Hall, but he didn’t want to overburden her, since the twins were recovering from a bout of influenza.
When they arrived at the rectory, George sent Noelle, Charlie, and Little Thomas off to play with the youngest Thompson children while he spoke with Father Ed.
“I haven’t seen you in a while, George. I hope you’ve been able to attend Mass?”
“No, I’m sorry. I’ve had to work.”
“Even on the Sabbath?”
“The Lord helps those who help themselves.”
Father Ed observed him thoughtfully. “While this is no longer your parish, I hope you know you can always come to me.”
“That’s why I have.” He didn’t want to tell Father Ed how poor their new parish was. Father John
