The Alchemist's Secret

A daily search for a letter and a cold farmhouse give these short stories a close view of poverty, family duty and faith. In the opening tale, elderly Tony keeps visiting the village post office because he promised his late wife, Martha, that he would ask for news of their daughter Sallie. Fifteen years have passed since she left. A Christmas basket of food, mittens and socks brings help from relatives, while Tony remembers Martha's concern for people poorer than themselves.

Another tale turns toward the courage demanded by acts of care. Patsy, a child who uses crutches, tries to protect his brother David and a woman from the plans of David's associates. Back in their shared room, he prepares tea and food, then faces the men as they make ready to leave. Prayer and practical kindness stand beside hardship in these scenes. Readers of religious fiction can explore the choices people make when their own needs and their obligations to loved ones press upon them.