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Coulson and Richardson’s Chemical Engineering, Fourth Edition: Volume 3A: Chemical and Biochemical Reactors and Reaction Engineering R. Ravi
Janusz Kacprzyk, Systems Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
The series “Studies in Systems, Decision and Control” (SSDC) covers both new developments and advances, as well as the state of the art, in the various areas of broadly perceived systems, decision making and control–quickly, up to date and with a high quality. The intent is to cover the theory, applications, and perspectives on the state of the art and future developments relevant to systems, decision making, control, complex processes and related areas, as embedded in the fields of engineering, computer science, physics, economics, social and life sciences, as well as the paradigms and methodologies behind them. The series contains monographs, textbooks, lecture notes and edited volumes in systems, decision making and control spanning the areas of Cyber-Physical Systems, Autonomous Systems, Sensor Networks, Control Systems, Energy Systems, Automotive Systems, Biological Systems, Vehicular Networking and Connected Vehicles, Aerospace Systems, Automation, Manufacturing, Smart Grids, Nonlinear Systems, Power Systems, Robotics, Social Systems, Economic Systems and other. Of particular value to both the contributors and the readership are the short publication timeframe and the world-wide distribution and exposure which enable both a wide and rapid dissemination of research output.
Indexed by SCOPUS, DBLP, WTI Frankfurt eG, zbMATH, SCImago.
All books published in the series are submitted for consideration in Web of Science.
Reem Khamis · Amina Buallay
Editors
AI in Business: Opportunities and Limitations
Volume 1
Editors
Reem Khamis
Brunel University London
Uxbridge, Middlesex, UK
University College of Bahrain
Janabiyah, Bahrain
Amina Buallay
Brunel University London
Uxbridge, Middlesex, UK
ISSN 2198-4182
ISSN 2198-4190 (electronic)
Studies in Systems, Decision and Control
ISBN 978-3-031-48478-0
ISBN 978-3-031-48479-7 (eBook) https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-48479-7
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Preface
In the rapidly evolving landscape of modern business, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force with the potential to revolutionize industries and redefine the way we work. The integration of AI technologies into various aspects of business operations has opened up new horizons, presenting both opportunities and limitations that demand careful exploration and understanding.
This book is a comprehensive compilation of knowledge and insights gathered from leading experts in the field. The selection of the 55 chapters included in this volume was meticulously conducted through a rigorous evaluation process. Each chapter underwent peer-review evaluation by at least two reviewers, in addition to thorough scrutiny by our team of editors. This meticulous approach ensures that the content presented within these pages is of the highest quality and represents the cutting-edge advancements in AI and its impact on business.
The book is divided into five parts, each focusing on a distinct aspect of AI’s influence on business:
Part One: AI and Business Growth
Part Two: Finance, Technology, and Sustainability
Part Three: CSR, Technology, and Empowerment
Part Four: ICT, Technology, and Business
Part Five: Logistics Technology and Quality Management
This book holds great significance for both the academic and professional spheres. For academics, it provides a comprehensive reference that consolidates the latest research and insights on AI in business. The diverse range of topics covered in the book ensures that scholars and researchers can delve into specific areas of interest and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding AI’s integration into business practices.
Professionals, on the other hand, will find this book to be a resource for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of AI in business. The chapters offer practical insights, real-world examples, and strategic frameworks that can guide decisionmaking, implementation, and innovation within organizations. Executives, managers, v
and entrepreneurs will find the book to be an essential companion in their journey to harness the potential of AI and maximize its benefits while mitigating its limitations. May this book inspire and empower readers to navigate the intricate landscape of AI, seize the opportunities it presents, and overcome the limitations it imposes in order to shape a prosperous and sustainable future for businesses worldwide.
Uxbridge, UK/Janabiyah, Bahrain
Uxbridge, UK
February 2024
Dr. Reem Khamis
Dr. Ameena Buallay
AI and Business Growth
A Study on Usage of Selective Health App in Bangalore City During Post Pandemic Period .......................................
S. J. G. Preethi and Tinto Tom
Predictive Analytics of Bitcoin Cryptocurrency Price Prediction: A Recurrent Neural Network Approach .............................
Anandhavalli Muniasamy, Salma Abdulaziz Saeed Alquhtani, and Linda Elzubair Gasim Alsid
3
11
ChatGPT and Halal Travel: An Overview of Current Trends and Future Research Directions 23
Mohamed Battour, Mohamed Salaheldeen, Khalid Mady, and Ririn Tri Ratnasari
A Study on Opportunities and Challenges of Fashion Products via Social Commerce Amongst Young Adults in Bangalore with Reference to Social Media Influencers ..........................
M. Shashi Kumar, L. Glady Agnes, Lydia Jemima, Kenneth Wilson Bavachan, and R. Muthusubramanian
33
A Study on Factors Influencing the Consumers’ Perception Towards Electric Vehicle in Chennai City ............................ 43 P. Kumarasamy and M. Krishnamoorthi
The Future of Luxury Brand Management: A Study on the Impact of New Technology and Relationship Marketing ...................... 57
Vandana Gupta, Junaid Hushain, and Abhilasha Mathur
An Analytical Study on the Self-Help Group Through Financial Inclusion Scheme in India 69
V. Saravanan, D. K. Baranitharan, M. Thenkovan, and K. Sivasubramanian
Does Materialism Affect Compulsive Buying Behavior Among Multiple Credit Card Users in Jakarta? .............................
Michael Christian, Ferry Halim, Henilia Yulita, Kurnadi Gularso, Sunarno Sunarno, and Suryo Wibowo
79
Reasons for the Misuse of Daily and Semester Plans by Teachers of English in Zarqa Secondary Schools in Jordan 87 Anwar AL-Bzour
Enhancing Sustainability and Smart Living: Adoption of IoT-Driven Automation of Vertical Gardens in Urban Spaces 99 Anna M. Orel, Volodymyr M. Orel, Viktor V. Diachenko, Iryna Perevozova, Mainka Marcel Kurt, and Khrystyna Kirshak
Application of Grey Relational Analysis for Utilizing Artificial Intelligence Methods in Aviation Management ....................... 113
Financial Inclusion and Economic Development: A Study on the Women Marginalized People in India .........................
Roopa Adarsh and K. Sivasubramanian
127
“Moment of Truth” in Aviation Marketing—A Study on Factors that Influence the Decision Making of Customers 137 Ponny Thomas and Priyanka Ghosh
Leniency Factors: An Insight into the Online Customer Return Behaviour 147
R. Vijaya Kumar and T. K. Sateesh Kumar
Evaluate the Unique Taxi Service in the City of Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ................................................... 159
Sameer A. Alhakimi and Alaa R. Sindi
Unveiling the Trade Dynamics: India’s Thriving Exchange with ASEAN Nations .............................................. 177
Jayaram Kanzal, Tinto Tom, N. M. Vipulkumar, Ajith P. Mathews, S. Vidhya, and V. Raju
Innovative Decisions in the Implementation of Restructuring and the Impact of Management Dynamic Capabilities on Their Efficiency ......................................................... 187
Tetiana L. Mostenska, Milita Vienažindien˙e, Ludmila Chorna, Eduard Yurii, and Tetiana G. Mostenska
Perceived Stress, Personality Traits on Internet Addiction Among Young Adults: A Cross Sectional Study ..............................
Anjana Sinha, Sujatha, V. R. Priyanka, Cynthia Sara James, and N. C. Kiran Babu
Peculiarities of Tourism and Recreational Activities in Ukraine: Economic and Managerial Aspects
Raisa Kozhukhivska, Olena Sakovska, Grzegorz Konieczny, Paulina Kolisnichenko, Liubov Kovalenko, and Diana Naherniuk
197
209
Meaning-Making Through the Lens of Cognitive Semantics: A Case Study of John Donne’s ‘Holy Sonnets: Death, Be not Proud’ .... 219
Mohammed Al-Badawi, Wafa Abu Hatab, and Haneen AL-Amleh
Development and Validation of Play Behavior Scale ...................
Karishma Begum, M. Priya, and N. C. Kiran Babu
229
A Tax Mechanism on Tour Operators in India ........................ 243
M. R. Meshan, A. Arun Prakash, Jaspreet Kaur, Rakhi Mohan, and Biju M. Mathew
CSR, Technology and Empowerment
Corporate Environmental Performance as Mediating Between Innovation and Financial Performance in the Jordanian Industrial, Services, Real Estate Sectors
Maher Alnaim, Farizah Sulong, and Zalailah Salleh
The Importance of Mentorship for Women Entrepreneurs in United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Aisha Almheiri, Ashok Chopra, and Akram Haddad
Frugality, Altruism, and Consciousness for Sustainable Consumption Amongst Adults in India ..............................
An Analysis of the Development, Current State, and Future Prospects of Mobile Communications for the Travel and Hospitality Industries ......................................................... 391
Ways in Which TQM, SCM Methods, and Operational Prowess Affect Company Performance 405
Liliana Horal, Svitlana Onyshchenko, Andriy Korniyenko, Sofiia Dub, Halyna Yermak, and Petro Hryniv
The Utilization of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on SMEs Performance: The Mediating Role of Financial Innovation ........................................................ 415
Fivi Anggraini, Vivie De Selva, and Daniatti Putri
Proposing a Novel Performance Management Framework for Malaysian Non-profit Organisations: Towards Achieving Sustainability ..................................................... 427
Salina Kassim, Niaz Makhdum Muhammad, Kartina Md Ariffin, Nur Farhah Mahadi, Syarah Syahira Mohd Yusoff, and Nor Saremah Salleh
Investment Behaviour in Retail Green Sukuk: Case of Indonesia ....... 437
Nashr Akbar, Wiku Suryomurti, and Salina Kassim
Enhancing Shariah Governance Practice: Insights from the Non-profit Organizations in Malaysia 449
Romzie Rosman, Nur Harena Redzuan, Nur Laili Ab Ghani, Nazrul Hazizi Noordin, and Siti Saffa Shaharuddin
Theorizing the Connection Between Economic Downturns and Employee Morale .............................................. 461
Ch.Raja Kamal and M. Chandrakala
Literary Muses on the Path to Conscious Self-sacrifice: A Jungian Archetypal Approach 469
Dania Meryan
Automation of Business Processes Using Robots in the Fields of Supply Chain Management, Intelligent Transportation, and Logistics 477
Ch Raja Kamal, Glady Agnes, Lydia Jemima, and M. Chandrakala
A Strategy for Conducting Sentiment Analysis Using AI in Human Resource Management ............................................. 491
Raja Kamal Ch and Surjit Singha
Effectiveness of Work Life Balance Towards Employee Engagement in Hospitals with Special Reference to Bangalore ......... 503 K. MeenaDevi, Raja Kamal Ch, G. V. Mrutyunjaya Sharma, and Kumar SubbaAnantha
Consumption Patterns Among Employees of IT and ITES Sectors ..... 513 Devarajanayaka Kalenahalli Muniyanayaka, Naveen Pol, Syed Kazim, K. P. Jaheer Mukthar, Kotigari Reddi Swaroop, and Ravi Shankar Bhakat
Logistics Technology and Quality Management
User Behavior and Emotional Responses in Social Media Avatar: Exploring Empathy, Attitudes, and Social Norms 529
A. Pushpa, C. Nagadeepa, K. P. Jaheer Mukthar, Oklander Mykhailo, Oklander Ihor, and Rakytska Svitlana
Selection of Logistics Center Location DEMATAL Method ............ 543
D. Ravindran, K. Janaki Priya, Oleksandr M. Kovbasa, Vitaly V. Polyvoda, Maksym A. Zaidenko, and Nadiia P. Reznik
Total Quality Management’s Impact on Telecom Customers Satisfaction, Analyzed Taking TQM-SERVQUAL Approach ...........
Ch. Raja Kamal, M. Chandrakala, Halak Iryna, Kostyuchenko Oleksandra, Penkivska Katerina, and P. Reznik Nadiia
555
Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises: A Critical Approach Based on E. D. Hirsch’s Hermeneutic Theory ........................ 565
Kifah Moh’d Khair Ali Al Omari
Impact of Supply Chain Quality Management Practices on the Purchasing Efficiency of Service Organizations 575
Ch. Raja Kamal, Arti Singh, Khodakyvskyy Volodymyr, Ruska Olena, Rybak Mariia, and Nadiia P. Reznik
Evolving Horizons of Work: Unravelling the Conceptual and Future Research Dimensions of Digital Workspaces ............... 585
A. Pushpa, Nidhi Shukla, Liliana Horal, Oleksandr Kivshyk, Olha Stepaniuk, and Nadiia P. Reznik
Human Resource Management in the 5.0 Economy: An Analytical Analysis 599
Ch.Raja Kamal, Svitlana V. Vovchok, Yuriy V. Ladyka, Nataliia M. Ladyka, and Nadiia P. Reznik
Use Social Media and Employer Branding to Reach Online Shoppers of Generation Z .......................................... 609
Raja Kamal, Ibha Rani, Kseniia V. Bliumska-Danko, Bohdan M. Plishyvyy, Egor M. Plishyvyy, and Nadiia P. Reznik
Study on Delinquency Levels and Portfolio Quality of the Microenterprise Bank—Peru ................................. 623
Rosario Huerta-Soto, Edwin Hernan Ramirez, K. P. Jaheer Mukthar, Rolando Saenz-Rodriguez, and Juan Villanueva-Calderón
A Study on the Impact of Green Branding on Consumer Buying Behaviour with Respect to the Purchase of Apparel ................... 639 Wilber Acosta-Ponce, Syed Kazim, K. P. Jaheer Mukthar, Juan Villanueva-Calderón, Edwin Hernan Ramirez, and J. K. Singh
Robust and Fragile Determinants of Foreign Direct Investment in Jordan 655 Taimour Alrubaiat
AI and Business Growth
A Study on Usage of Selective Health App in Bangalore
Pandemic Period
City During Post
S. J. G. Preethi and Tinto Tom
1 Introduction
The Covid-19 has opened up the door for many sectors. Education & health has been faced many challenges at the same time Online classes, online collaborative academic environment, video conferencing methods gave a new structure to the Educational sector. At the same time, Health care system has been restructured by introducing and extending the e health care services. However, telemedicine process started in India. Although telemedicine-related initiatives began in India in 1999, the government only began to acknowledge its potential in 2000. Indian Space research Organization launched pilot project of Telemedicine industry in 2001.This is the first step taken by Indian Government towards Telemedicine with the collaboration of Apollo Hospital. In 2005 Ministry of Health and Family Welfare introduced National Telemedicine Taskforce and followed by that in 2006 Planning commission approved the budget for e-health services. The Nationwide Cancer Network (ONCONET), the National Rural Telemedicine Network and Digital medical institutions set up with the primary goal of e learning, are further national projects in India. Later in 2017, the National Health Policy (NHP) highlighted the objectives for building an integrated health information system for all parties involved in the health system, with the purpose of improving effectiveness, transparency, and citizen experience. A detailed architectural framework for a “Federated National Health Information System” is proposes to build network with private and public health provider organizations across primary, secondary, and tertiary care value chains in order to provide efficient health care services.
In India, there were no formal telemedicine regulations until 2019. In 2019 COVID-19 has significantly increased the use of telemedicine in India. A number of electronic programmer (e-applications) for healthcare consultations, including
S. J. G. Preethi (B) · T. Tom
Kristujayanti College, Banagalore, Karnataka 560077, India
Amwell, Doctor on demand, MDlive, and Babylon, have flourished globally due to the demand for risk-free contactless contacts between doctors and patients. Eapplications like Practo, 1 mg, and PharmEasy have become very popular in India. The Indian government has also begun offering its eSanjeevani telemedicine service with the support of National Teleconsultation Service and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The primary national teleconsultation website for the Indian government is called eSanjeevani. The administration launched eSanjeevani OPD on April 13, 2020, during the initial lockdown (Press Information Bureau, Government of India, 2021). A “Digital Health Card” consist of all the details on each Indian citizen’s health issues, diagnoses, and pertinent reports will be provided under the aegis of the National Digital Health Mission, introduced by the Indian Government on August 15, 2020 in accordance with the 74th celebrations of Indian Independence Day. Health apps are easily accessible, less expensive in nature, helps the users to track the health information in a systematic way. It is an evidence based and user-friendly platform. Present Study focusing the consumer perception of using selective health apps in India.
2 Literature Review
Bokolo [1] discussed the application of telemedicine and eHealth and describe this as a proactive measure to improve clinical care using data from the existing literature. The findings of the study demonstrate the value of telemedicine and the modern applications used during the pandemic. More importantly, the results show how telemedicine and eHealth can be used in clinical services. Additionally, policies launched globally to support management of COVID-19 are discussed. Accordingly, this study suggests that both of the elements can be used as a practical, secure, scalable, efficient, and environmentally friendly means of delivering clinical care during health emergencies.
Monaghesh and Hajizadeh [2] conducted a systematic review based on current evidence on the study about Outbreak of Covid-19 can be monitored through Telehealth. This study focused the contribution of telehealth towards the prevention. Diagnosis, treatment and management of during covid-19 pandemic. Study highlights the advantage of telemedicine such as reducing risk of health workers and patients those who isolated and it leads to low morbidity currently, telemedicine is unquestionably acceptable in reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission among healthcare workers and patients who isolate themselves. This approach may be used to avoid any kind of direct physical contact, offer ongoing care to the neighbourhood, and ultimately lower morbidity and mortality rates during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Kustwar and Ray [3] provides an overview of the eHealth and telemedicine landscape in India with a focus on addressing the healthcare needs of the population. The study explores the intersection of technology and healthcare, examining the potential benefits and challenges of eHealth and telemedicine solutions in the Indian context. The primary objective of the study is to provide an understanding of the role of
eHealth and telemedicine in addressing healthcare needs in India. The author’s likely aim to shed light on the benefits, challenges, and implications of implementing these technologies within the Indian healthcare system. The studies emphasize that potential of eHealth and telemedicine to bridge healthcare gaps in India, offering innovative solutions to overcome geographical and infrastructural barriers. The authors might also discuss the need for continued efforts to ensure the effective implementation of these technologies, taking into account various challenges and considerations.
Acharya and Rai [4] examine the study titled “An Evaluation of Telemedicine Services at Apollo Tele Health: A Cross-Sectional Study” contributes valuable insights to the evolving discourse on telemedicine’s potential in healthcare. The study’s emphasis on patient and provider satisfaction, cost-effectiveness, and challenges provides a foundation for further research and policymaking in the realm of digital health services. As telemedicine continues to reshape healthcare delivery, this study offers a timely exploration of its impact on patient care and medical practice.
Mishra et al. [5] the authors provide an insightful overview of the state of telemedicine networks in India at the time and discuss potential future developments. The paper starts by highlighting the increasing importance of telemedicine in addressing healthcare challenges in a vast and diverse country like India. It emphasizes the potentiality of telemedicine to serve the urban and rural health care services, making medical expertise more accessible to underserved populations. The authors discuss the various technological and infrastructural advancements that have facilitated the growth of telemedicine networks in India.
The authors provides a comprehensive analysis of the key players, both governmental and private, who have contributed to the establishment and expansion of telemedicine services. The paper underscores the significance of partnerships and collaborations between different stakeholders, including medical institutions, technology providers, and policy makers, in shaping the telemedicine landscape. Furthermore, the paper outlines the challenges faced by the Indian telemedicine sector, such as limited connectivity in remote areas, regulatory issues, and the need for standardized protocols. The authors also discuss the role of telemedicine in specific healthcare domains like tele-radiology, tele-pathology, and tele-ophthalmology.
In terms of the future perspective, the authors offer valuable insights into the potential growth trajectory of telemedicine in India. They highlight the need for continued investment in technological infrastructure, including high-speed internet connectivity and mobile networks, to enable seamless telemedicine services across the country.
Yang et al. [6] used a longitudinal approach in an empirical study to assess the efficacy of online healthcare platforms. Study examined over 75,000 records of online doctor-patient consultations analysed several time periods and found that patients’ subsequent consultation behaviour is greatly influenced by their initial contacts.
Mathur et al. [7] gave an overview of the role of telemedicine in Health care Delivery in India. In this study, researchers highlighted the importance of telemedicine to reduce the health disparities in underserved areas of India.
Study by Ganapathy and Ravindra [8] discussed about Telemedicine in India: The Apollo Story. Telemedicine and e-Health presents a case study of Apollo Hospitals’ telemedicine initiative. The study discusses the implementation of telemedicine services within the Apollo Hospitals network in India, focusing on expanding healthcare access to underserved regions. The paper highlights the positive impact of telemedicine on patient access to specialists, reduced travel time, and increased medical services in remote areas. It also addresses challenges faced during implementation and offers lessons for other healthcare providers considering telemedicine solutions. The study concludes by emphasizing the pioneering role of Apollo Hospitals’ telemedicine initiative in bridging healthcare gaps and serving as a potential model for other institutions.
3 Research Objectives
• To identify the factors determining the perception about health app usage.
• To examine the factors which determines the Health app benefits of Users.
• To analyse the factors motivating the ease of using health apps.
3.1 Factors Determine the Usage of Selective Health Apps
See Fig. 1
4 Results and Discussion
Factors influencing selective health app were examined in terms of perception, benefits and ease of using. Factors analysis using SPSS identified by using Eigen value. It suggests that factors with an Eigen value of greater than 1.0 Principal component analysis and varimax.
The Table1 explains KMO value of 0.712 is greater than 0.50, which represents the significance of factor analysis in existing data. Since P value is less than 0.01, the hypothesis is rejected.
The Table 2 explains the extraction of three factors, which determine the perception, benefits and ease of using health apps with sub factors. In the above table Cumulative, percentage variance is discussing 78.62% of total variance from the 28 original variable. The above table explains the Factor I explains 31.21% of variables in the factor. Followed by the factor II and Factor III Explained respectively.
1 Factors determine the usage of selective health apps
Fig.
Table 1 KMO and Bartlett’s Test
Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin measure of sampling adequacy
Bartlett’s test of sphericity Chi-square value 1342.232 Pvalue < 0.001**
Note ** Denotes significant at 1% level
5 Findings and Conclusion
The above analysis stating that there are many factors determine the usage of health among those the perception among people playing a very important role 31.21% explained through this principle component compare with other variable which comes under benefit and ease of use the app.
The pandemic has been a boost to the health app usage in India with more people turning to online platforms for medical consultation. The ease of use and convenience of these platforms have made them popular among patients and doctors alike. E Health system in India is still in its early developmental stages, with a lot of potential for growth. The industry faces some challenges, such as lack of awareness, infrastructure, and skilled personnel. However, the government is supportive of the industry and is taking steps to promote its growth.
5.1 Future Research Direction
Present study identify the major factors causing the usage of health app. Research identify that perception among the people about health app playing a major role in the usage of it. Recent study proves that majority of app users preferring fitness related health app than others. Though health apps are used by urban population, in future it is bridge the gap between Urban and rural communities. Further, it will increase the health care accessibility of rural population.
Table 2 Output of principle component method
Factor Statement for challenges of organised retailers
I The quality of the service may not be good
There is no physical examination by the doctors 0.701
There is risk of wrong diagnosis 0.654
Speed of recovery might be delayed 0.573
I might not get same doctor’s appointment at required time
There are chances of being cheated
Doctors might give less attention
II More convenient way of contacting doctors
More convenient way of getting medicine
Economical in nature
Less time consuming compare with physical consultancy
Can easy to follow up the suggestion given by medical practitioner
Some services are available at door steps its more comfortable
Safe home sample collection is more convenient 0.724
Quality of services from health app service providers has lot of problems
I am skilful enough to use all the menu in the app
All service information are clear and precise 0.617
Using internet as a medium to access the services of the app is flexible
Sample delivery to lab
Online report delivery is more convenient
References
1. Bokolo, A. J.: Exploring the adoption of telemedicine and virtual software for care of outpatients during and after COVID-19 pandemic. Irish J. Med. Sci. 190(1):1–10 (2021)
2. Monaghesh, E., Hajizadeh, A.: The role of telehealth during COVID-19 outbreak: a systematic review based on current evidence. BMC Public Health 20, 1–9 (2020)
3. Kishor Kustwar, R., Ray, S.: eHealth and telemedicine in India: an overview on the health care need of the people. J. Multidisciplin. Res. Healthcare 6(2):25–36 (2020)
4. Acharya, R.V., Rai, J.J.: Evaluation of patient and doctor perception toward the use of telemedicine in apollo tele health services, India. J. Fam. Med. Prim. Care 5(4), 798 (2016)
5. Mishra, S.K., Singh, I.P., Chand, R.D.: Current Status of telemedicine network in India and future perspective. Proceed. Asia-Pacific Adv. Netw. 32(1), 151–163 (2012)
6. Yang, Y., Zhang, X., Lee, P. K. C.: Improving the effectiveness of online healthcare platforms: an empirical study with multi-period patient-doctor consultation data. Int. J. Product. Econ. 207:70–80 (2019)
7. Mathur, P., Srivastava, S., Lalch, A., Mehta, J.L.: Evolving role of telemedicine in health care delivery in India. Prim. Health Care Open Access 7(1), 1–6 (2017)
8. Ganapathy, K., Ravindra, A.: Telemedicine in India: the Apollo story. Telemed. E-Health 15(6), 576–585 (2009)
Predictive Analytics of Bitcoin Cryptocurrency Price Prediction:
A Recurrent Neural Network Approach
Anandhavalli Muniasamy , Salma Abdulaziz Saeed Alquhtani, and Linda Elzubair Gasim Alsid
1 Introduction
Bitcoin is a secure digital currency that uses cryptography and is not subject to government or financial regulation. Bitcoin can operate independently of central banks and spread rapidly around the world. It is popular as a barter and a store of value [1]. Its value has fluctuated over the years, reaching $1.2 trillion in November 2021 and reaching $68,000 per coin in November 2021.
Bitcoin is extremely valuable as a result of a major price change. Products, stores of value, and payment exchange are queried. While maintaining the security and distribution advantages, it has become difficult to understand Bitcoin’s movement and mitigate Bitcoin’s volatility risk. Some researchers have tried to understand bitcoin trends by assessing the relationship between bitcoin price and prices of other commodities.
Due to the complexity of the Bitcoin product and the volatility of its value over time, there are only a few algorithms that will accurately predict the value of the Bitcoin cryptocurrency. The historical price change of Bitcoin [2] is shown in Fig. 1 Therefore, it becomes very important to accurately predict the price of Bitcoin (the most used cryptocurrency) to be useful in today’s investment options. Deep learning methods and neural network models can be taken into account when estimating value from physical data.
The most effective and well-known RNN method for finding patterns in periodic data such as time series data, financial markets, and government agencies is the LSTM and GRN architectures. Other neural networks, as opposed to GRNs and LSTMs, incorporate a temporal component and consider the time and sequences. In general, LSTMs and bidirectional LSTMs (Bi-LSTM) tend to be more effective at tasks that require the network to store and access long-term dependencies. On the other hand,
A. Muniasamy (B) S. A. S. Alquhtani L. E. G. Alsid
College of Computer Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
GRUs are more effective for tasks that require the network to learn quickly and adapt to new inputs. In general, it is wise to test both Bi-LSTM s and GRUs to determine which is more effective for a particular purpose [20].
Owing to Bitcoin’s extreme price volatility, investors cannot avoid risk by simply anticipating future price increases or decreases. However, it is better to have a precise Bitcoin price to use as a benchmark.
Creating price prediction models that cryptocurrency investors and experts can rely on historical data is the main goal of the proposed RNN models. The remainder of the article is organized as follows: Sections 2 and 3 describe the literature review and methodology, Chapter 4 presents the conclusions and discussion, and Chapter 5 concludes the training.
2 Literature Review
In this section, we briefly discuss early research on deep learning-based Bitcoin price prediction. Researchers [3] developed a hybrid cryptocurrency forecasting method based on LSTM and GRU for Litecoin and Monero only. The findings show the applicability of the concept for various price predictions of Bitcoin as well as the accuracy of price predictions. The authors of [4] developed two RNN and LSTM based Bitcoin price prediction models and compared them to the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model. RNN and LSTM models outperform ARIMA models [4].
Fig.
The authors of [5] developed and implemented a deep feed-forward neural network (DFFNN) to model and predict bitcoin price data. The authors of this study evaluated the accuracy of DFFNN compared to the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm and robustness methods. The simulation results showed that DFFNN trained by Levenberg–Marquardt method outperformed DFFNN trained by dynamic method and DFFNN trained by Powell-Beale restart method. As powerful tools accelerate, business and online training can benefit from their use. The growth rate and machine learning investment method presented in [6] predicted the three most popular cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin, with 80 and 91.35% accuracy respectively.
Research [7] on Bitcoin research related to various sources (books, journals, etc. easy access information) as well as predictions, methods, strategies, and tools for understanding the product. Although the RMSE of the forecast output is very high, this study demonstrates how to use LSTM to build a forecasting model for the Bitcoin exchange. researchers evaluated the effectiveness of MLP and RNN models in predicting the Bitcoin exchange rate [8]. Long-term cost estimates outperform short-term cost estimates in both MLPs and RNNs. The model that performed best in this test had Accuracy, Precision and Recall values of 81.3, 81 and 94.7%, for the range between 3 and 200 epochs, respectively.
To promote the development of intelligent systems, [9] created an optimization technique for processing hidden layer features to anticipate stock price measurement. Using stable neural network design and parameters, the researchers in this study found that AANNs performed better when the number of neurons used in the hidden process increased.
This study [10] used a regression model to analyze various factors that affect the value of the Indian rupee, such as foreign direct investment, foreign exchange, crude oil imports and price hike prices, adjusting the measures taken by the government to control its value. currency unit and create a model that predicts future exchange rates based on specified conditions.
The study in [11] fed statistical features derived from historical benchmark price data into a deep learning model, and their method outperformed competing methods and achieved good accuracy. They investigated how 1D-CNN and LSTM accuracy rates were impacted by feature extraction using PCA. This study showed that despite the 1D-CNN model performing well in terms of computational complexity during training, LSTM with PCA outperformed the dataset. The authors [12] used the LSTM model for Bitcoin data from 2016 to February 2022 to compare with other studies [4, 8] and found accuracy (95%). This study [13] used the LSTM and random regression model to analyze three US stock market indices and concluded that the model’s prediction accuracy of both models will decrease as the number of histories increases. However, this study uses Bidirectional Long-Term Memory (Bi-LSTM) and Gated Repetitive Unit (GRU) RNN methods to predict the price of Bitcoin cryptocurrency even using the previous dataset standard and hyperparameters for real-time data. This method was motivated by the precise results and superior performance of previous studies. The proposed model was thoroughly compared to previously reported models.
3 Methodology
The research methodology of this study is shown in Fig. 2.
3.1 Dataset
The BTC-USD dataset was collected from [14]. The specifications of the applied parameters are presented in Table 1. The dataset contains 3248 rows and six columns.
3.2 Data Preprocessing
The features ‘Date’ and ‘Close’, which can indicate daily fluctuations in Bitcoin price, are employed in this forecasting model. To enable a faster and more accurate fit of the model, the min–max scaler was used for the normalization of the “close” feature. The associations between the original data values were preserved by min–max normalization. If the input for future normalization is outside the original data range of feature A, an out of bounds error will be encountered. Equation 1 contains the following formula:
2 Research methodology
Table 1 Description of the dataset [14]
Data features
Date
Open
High
Low
Close
Volume
Description
Date of the observation
Daily open price of bitcoin
Daily high price of bitcoin
Daily low price of bitcoin
Daily close price of bitcoin
Daily trading volume of bitcoin
Fig.
V ' = V min ( A )/ max ( A ) min ( A ) ∗ [ne w max( A ) ne w min ( A ) + ne w min ( A )] (1)
where min, max = feature range; new-max = 1; new-min = 0; A is the feature data; and V = new data.
3.3 Data Splitting
The data is divided into three parts: training (70%), testing (20%), and validation (10%).
3.4 Modeling & Training
Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) is a type of neural network that processes continuous data such as text, audio, or time data. They are designed to remember or “store” information from previous input. This allows them to use the context and dependencies between time steps. This makes them useful for time estimation.
Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM)
The LSTM model uses an RNN subtype to store and output data. Gates in the LSTM network are controlled by sigmoid (σ) and tanh activation, and the output value is between 0 and 1 for a given data A. In summary, the LSTM architecture consists of multiple memory blocks interconnected by a series of connected cells. The memory block of the network performs two functions: controlling the flow of data between units and storing the state of the network over time [15].
Gated Recurrent Network
GRU is the gate mechanism in RNN [16]. Instead of the three gates used in LSTMs, they use an “update gate” to control the flow of data into the memory cell. This makes GRUs easier to train and operate faster than LSTMs.
3.5 Performance Metrics
Evaluating the performance of LSTM and GRN models Probability of Mean Error (MAPE) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) are the most commonly used performance indicators to evaluate the model. The formulas for RMSE and MAPE are given in Eqs. 2 and 3, respectively.
RM SE = (1/n ) ∗ ∑ (actual prediction )2 (2)
where ∑ —the symbol represents “sum”; n—sample size; actual—the real data value; prediction—the estimated data value.
The performance of the prediction model increases as the RMSE or MAPE value decreases.
4 Results and Discussion
Data for the RNN models should be in the form of X-and Y-sequences. In this model, X stands for the prices from the previous 60 days and Y for the prices from the following day, or the 31st day. Because of the neural network foundation of the Bi-LSTM and GRN algorithms, normalizing or standardizing the data is necessary for a quicker and more precise fit. Sklearn, Keras, and Tensorflow are a few Python libraries that were utilized by the proposed deep learning models.
The parameters used for Bi-LSTM and GRN models are given in Table 2
4.1 Results for LSTM
The LSTM model has three input layers with bidirectional flow, which allows for training sequence data in both forward and backward directions. It also has a dense output system with a linear activation function. The model’s loss values are shown in Fig. 3.
The model shows the values: training loss = 0.000098 and validation loss = 0.001124. Figure 4 shows the accuracy of the Bi-LSTM model in predicting the price of Bitcoin.
For RMSE and MAPE, accuracy of the Bi-LSTM model is 16.524 and 0.0044%, respectively.
Table 2 Parameters and training options for GRN
Hyper parameters
Sequence
Values
Dropout 0.2
Batch-size 256
Epochs 100
Loss
Mean square error
Optimizer Adam
Fig. 3 Model loss from the Bi-LSTM prediction model
Fig. 4 BTC price prediction from Bi-LSTM prediction model
4.2 Result of GRN Model
The GRU model has three input layers with a tanh activation function and one dense output layer. The model has been compiled with RMSE and MAPE loss functions.
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he had felt unable to join when at the Mission Room, "I am so glad that Jesus loves me."
He felt as if he could sing them now, and caught himself whispering "Even me" with a new sense of happiness. But he wanted to know a great deal more, and he felt that he could not sleep while all this inner questioning was going on.
The preacher had said they must begin by repenting. Now, what had he to repent about? There was marrying Maggie. He had troubled about that. But dear me! How she had silenced his regrets on that score whilst they sat in the railway carriage. She didn't own to having eaten rue pie, not she, indeed, but said that if it were to do again, she, knowing all that was to follow, would take him to her heart.
Thinking over that little scene, Adam smiled to himself, and seeming to feel the wife's kisses on his rough face, said softly, "No, no. If she doesn't rue, I needn't." So repentance on this score was out of the question.
Then Adam began to think what else there was. He was resolved, if he made a start on the new road, it should be a fair one, and so he looked back as far as he could on his past life, with the honest intention of finding out what he ought to be sorry for.
Not about mother. He had given up much, done his best, stuck to her alone, and to the last.
Conscience expressed herself satisfied on this point. Not with respect to his employers! As boy and man no one could say that Adam Livesey had not given a fair penn'orth of work for every penny of wages.
Again conscience affirmed the assertion.
There were wife and children. Well, he had never abused the one or the other. He gave them all he could win by steady, honest toil. He never used hard or cruel words, or struck his innocent little ones, or spent on drink and selfindulgence even a small portion of the wages he earned.
"All right, so far," said conscience; and then Adam was a little in danger of giving up his newborn resolutions and going to bed in a state of satisfaction with himself hitherto unknown.
He would have done so, if it had not been for the memory of the preacher's words and that open Bible, which he had been turning over and over, not knowing where to find what he wanted. Whilst doing so, he was thinking how much better he was than many of his neighbours. Had he really anything to repent about?
All at once through his mind flashed the memory of the preacher's thanksgiving for mercies received, and Adam remembered how many of them he also enjoyed. Life, health, strength, food, clothing, light and air to breathe. Home, wife, children, and from what he had heard there were other blessings without end, that he might have had for the asking, in the name of Jesus.
He could see a light shining through his ignorance now. He had never thanked God for anything. He had lived without thinking of Him at all.
But he wanted something out of that Bible, and he could not find the right thing. He had opened it several times, hap-hazard, and had come upon long strings of names which were hard to read; upon a description of Solomon's Temple, which he found it impossible to realize, never having seen any fine house in his life; then upon a
chapter in Revelation which was more mysterious still. Evidently he wanted a guide to show him where these passages could be found, that gave such light and comfort to other people.
Adam was almost giving up in despair, when he noticed that there were some strings, as he mentally called them. Opening at one place where a narrow ribbon lay, he observed some of the verses had pencil marks, and he thought they must be specially nice to be so distinguished. He began to read, "'Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted.' 'Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled.'"
"That's for me," said Adam; then turning to another pencil mark, "'Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.'
"And I've left that to the last. What have I cared about God while He's been caring about me? I wish I knew how to begin now."
Adam's eye was wandering in search of another pencil mark, and in a moment his eye rested on the words, "'Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.'
"That's plain," thought Adam. "I've got to ask. 'Tisn't reason to get all one wants without speaking a word for it. At Rutherford's we reckon we're well off if we get a favour for the asking, and we don't forget to say 'Thank ye' to the foreman or manager. No taking everything as if one had a
right to it, same as I've been doing with God's gifts, never owning any obligation in the matter.
"Very cheering, too, to read such words as these. They're so straight. No going round about. No 'ifs' or 'buts' or 'maybe's,' but a plain 'it shall be given you.'"
Adam followed on and read the three next verses, ending with, "'If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him?'"
Adam's fatherly tenderness helped him here, and he thought, "Yes, I would give any of my little 'uns the best bit I have, poor things! I wish I had more for them. Can it be that God feels like this to me? It says, He would 'much more' give this Holy Spirit, and He has given His only Son, and that with Him, He will freely give all the other things we want. If all this be true, I ought to be ashamed of myself, for it's plain God only wants to be asked."
It was many a year since Adam Livesey had bent a knee in reverence, or uttered a word in a spirit of prayer, and from a sense of want.
He did both now, amid a very conflict of varying feelings. Joy at the discovery of God's love in Christ Jesus, disgust at his own ingratitude, wonder that he could have been so utterly blind and indifferent to his Heavenly Father's dealings and gifts, sorrow for so many lost years—lost, because lived without God—and a longing after pardon, peace and guidance in the present and the future.
His prayer would have sounded strangely in human ears, but it went up to God from an honest and true heart, and not in vain. The Father's promise, given in the words of Jesus, was fulfilled, and the poor humble solitary man, "of
no account" in his own eyes, did not ask or seek in vain when he poured out his supplications at the throne of grace.
Earth rejoiced not, knew nothing of the yearning soul or the cry that went up from it, but "there was joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repented."
There would have been joy beneath an earthly roof too, if its master and his guest could have known what was passing in Adam Livesey's mind.
Mr. Drummond and his friend, the preacher, had been glad to see Adam at the Mission Room that evening. Indeed, the striker had suggested both text and sermon, though he did not know it.
The manager having told Mr. Kennedy about his talk with Adam, the latter had seized on the man's oft-repeated expression, "I'm o' no account," and used it as has been already told, though not without praying that the man might be led to the place of meeting, and be benefited by it.
Mr. Kennedy thought of speaking to Adam, but was prevented by his early departure, and Mr. Drummond was not sorry for this, and said to his friend, "Livesey is no ordinary character. He is best left to himself at first. He is not the man to be excited or carried away by mere feeling, to make professions or promises on the spur of the moment. But he will think over what he has heard, and you and I can wait and pray that the good seed of the word may take deep root in his heart, and eventually bear fruit to God's glory. I think we shall see him again to-morrow."
In this, however, Mr. Drummond was mistaken. He kept a careful watch on all comers and goers, and was convinced
that Adam Livesey was not in the Mission Room on the Tuesday evening.
The manager was greatly disappointed. He thought if that particular address had not touched a responsive chord in the man's heart, he would not be likely to come a second time.
If he could have known that it was the very unselfishness of his rugged friend that kept him at home he would have felt no regret.
The fact was that Adam stayed at home in order that Sarah Evans might go to the Mission Room. He felt that the girl would like it, especially as her uncle and aunt would be there, and so hastened home from work to get tea over, and take charge of the children. Though Sarah insisted that she would not mind staying in, Adam quoted his usual saying, "Turn about's the fair thing," and that the girl must take hers. Baby could be put to bed, and Maggie could manage with him to stand by her. She'd often done it without anybody, for that matter, but he meant stopping at home. So it was settled.
When Sarah's back was turned, the little tongues were loosed, and the children told their father how, the night before, this new housekeeper had wondered so that they had never been taught to say a prayer. She had put some simple words into their mouths, and knelt beside them and asked God's blessing on them all, from baby upwards.
"And, father, she cried when she was knelt down," said Maggie, with an awe-stricken face, so much was she impressed by the memory of Sarah's tears.
Truth to say, the young woman was grieved that not one of the little group of children seemed to dream of
kneeling to say "Our Father" before they went to rest.
She wondered whether, if she strove to teach them, she should be blamed, but resolved to risk this, and before the children slept, each had also been taught that short but precious text, "God is love."
When Maggie told her father this, Adam felt as if he had received a blow. Conscience made it plain to him that here was something left undone that ought to have been done, another sin to be grieved over, forsaken, and he trusted, forgiven.
In that humble way which was so touching, he said to his child, "I doubt I have not done right in letting you go on so long without learning to say your prayers, Maggie. But now you have begun, you must go on. I'm glad Sarah has given you a start."
To the amazement of the children, Adam was the one to kneel beside them that night, though all he found words to say was, "Lord Jesus, bless the children and their mother and me. Help us to do right, and forgive us all our sins." Then he repeated "Our Father," bidding the children say the prayer after him, and that was all.
When they were at rest, he got the large Bible, for Sarah had taken hers to the meeting with her, and though there were no marks to guide him, he remembered whereabouts he had found such sweet words of encouragement. By seeking, he discovered many more, and the lonely hour was happily and profitably spent.
Only Adam's heart was full of longing that his wife could share his newborn happiness, the experience which in after days, every child of God can recall to mind as the first desire of an awakened soul.
CHAPTER XIV.
THE LETTER AND ITS ANSWER.
THE next morning's post brought a letter from Mrs. Livesey, with news of her safe arrival. Adam was delighted to receive it, but it took a long time to make out its meaning. His wife had a style both of writing and spelling peculiar to herself, the natural result of having had little practice in either for many years past, and fingers stiffened by rough work.
By dint of much painstaking, Adam gathered that she had been met at the station by Ann's husband, sent by her mother for that purpose. That Mrs. Allison had rallied, and might live for weeks, though she could not get better, and that she begged her daughter to remain with her to the last.
The thought of being so long absent from Adam and the children troubled Mrs. Livesey, but what could she do? Adam must let her know, somehow, what he thought about it, and if he said she must come home sooner, she would come.
Adam gathered other particulars from the queer scrawl.
Mrs. Allison, lying on her death-bed, owned that she had not done the right thing by her youngest daughter.
"She says she will make it up to me. I don't know what she is going to do," wrote Mrs. Livesey, or at least she wrote what may be thus translated. "I'm glad I did not buy a black bonnet. Mother looked at mine and said, 'Is it new?' and when I told her 'yes,' she was pleased, and said, 'Then you are not looking for me to die, so as you may get my shoes.'"
Mrs. Allison had also praised the baby's beauty, her daughter's thrift in having taken such care of the clothes sent her from time to time, and she sent her love to Adam and the children. "You must have been a good husband," she says, "or I should not stand up for you as I do, and after all, that is one of the things that can't be got for money."
There were messages for the children, and kisses for all round, which were to be mutually delivered on behalf of the writer. And inasmuch as she did not lavish such caresses on any of them, except the two youngest for the time being, Mrs. Livesey's deputy kisses caused some surprise to those who received them.
In a postscript, Mrs. Livesey told Adam that he must use that sovereign as occasion required, to pay Sarah Evans for her services. Even if the money were made to go as far as usual, which could hardly be expected in hands less experienced than those of the mother, the wages were extra, and Mrs. Allison would gladly pay them and more, in order to keep her daughter with her while she lived. Money would be sent in due course.
Altogether the letter was very satisfactory to Adam. He could picture his wife by her mother's bedside and looking, years considered, hardly less changed than the invalid herself, yet stoutly standing up for her man at home, all of
whose virtues would be magnified in her eyes by absence. The letter said no word of the mother's feelings on seeing the change, but doubtless, the sight of her Margaret's pale face and thin, aged features would touch her heart, and add to her feelings of regret for years of neglect.
Of course Maggie should be spared. Adam was not the one, at any time, to stand selfishly in the way of giving pleasure or comfort to another, and now he did not allow Mrs. Allison's desertion of them and after neglect to influence his reply. He resolved that Maggie should stay just as long as her mother wanted her.
The letter had been brought to him with breakfast by his eldest boy, and he was pondering as to the answer, when Mr. Drummond passed through the smithy.
The manager was always early at the works, having great faith in the value of the master's eye for keeping the men at their posts, and for enhancing the quality of the work turned out.
Adam was just folding up his letter, which he had taken into a quiet spot to read. In five minutes the pulses of the great engines would begin to throb again, and the human as well as the other machinery would be all in motion.
Mr. Drummond stopped not to shake hands here. At Rutherford's, he was manager, Adam a mere labourer. Outside they were man to man; nevertheless, he brought a bit of his outside humanity to bear, for he paused to ask the striker if he had received good news from his wife.
Adam in few words gave him the substance of his news, and thanked him for the inquiry.
A little sigh, which escaped the striker as he pushed the letter back into his pocket, reached Mr. Drummond's ear. He was a man of quick sympathies, and as he glanced at Adam's horny, toil-stiffened hands, he guessed the reason. Probably he dreaded the labour which the writing of an answer would involve, more than a week of ordinary work. Even if he could write, practice must have rendered it easier for him to wield that huge hammer than to guide a pen.
"You have an hour for dinner," said the manager; "can you make half the time do, and come to my office for the remainder?"
"To be sure, sir. I have my dinner here, and less than half an hour will do to eat it in."
"Look in at half past twelve, then."
Adam had only time to assent, for it was needful to resume work, and the men were thronging into the various departments.
Richard Evans was employed in another part of the works, or probably Adam would have spoken to him about replying to his wife's letter, and bespoken the services of one of his sons. He went home to dinner, so there was no chance at that time.
Exactly at the half-hour, Adam entered Mr. Drummond's office, and found him alone.
"Now, Livesey," said he, "I have about twenty-five minutes at your service. Would you like to employ me as your clerk? You trusted me a good deal when we met in the park, and if you like to do so now, I will write whatever you wish in answer to your wife's letter. Then you can put in the private messages at the end."
Adam's astonishment may be better imagined than described. "That was so bothering me," he answered. "I never write letters, and though I once could manage pretty well, I've got clean out of it."
He was going on to thank Mr. Drummond, but the latter, with good-humoured firmness, said the thanks must wait
until he had earned them, and bade Adam tell him what to write, as time was precious.
The manager had already dated a sheet of paper, and written, "My dear Maggie," and showed the same to the gratified eyes of the striker, who, after a little pause, went on to dictate to his volunteer secretary.
"I was very glad to get your letter this morning, and to know that you got safe to your mother's, and that she was pleased to see you. We are all very well, and the children take to Sarah Evans very nicely. She is very clean, and keeps them and the house nice and tidy, as you would say, if you could look in now. You must stop with your mother while she wants you. You would be sorry after, if you left her, and I should be sorry to send for you back, if we only all keep well, as this leaves us at present.
"I've not been home since your letter came, for Tom brought it with my breakfast; but they will all be pleased when I tell them I've heard from mother. I'll give them the kisses.
"Mr. Drummond is writing for me in half the dinner-hour. I should be slow with a pen now, but I'll try and put a bit in at the last.
"I haven't changed that sovereign yet, but I expect I shall have to do, for you know what. I have it locked up in the little tea-caddy till I want some of it.
"I'm glad, too, you didn't buy the black
bonnet." (Adam explained this allusion.) "It would have looked bad if you had. Tell mother I'm much obliged for promising to pay the young woman, but maybe the sovereign will last. I was going to say I hope it will, only I bethought me that would be like saying I hope mother won't last long. So I hope it won't, unless it be that she takes a good turn, and gets better after all; which it would please me to hear of.
"The little uns will want to send their love and kisses back again, but I'll put them in after I get home. So no more at present from—
"Your loving husband, "ADAM LIVESEY."
The signature was executed by Adam himself, and he seemed rather proud of it when it was done. Mr. Drummond had hard work to hide the kindly smile that came to his face as he watched him labouring over it, thinking the while that he would, if possible, devise some means for the improvement of the man's writing. The manager addressed the letter, and put on the stamp, leaving the envelope open for additions. He was touched when Adam, after vainly searching in every pocket for a coin, said he would bring the pay for the stamp and paper next morning.
"I have a threepenny bit at home," he said, with perfect simplicity, "but I left it in my other waistcoat pocket. I don't hardly keep any myself, because my missis wants it all to pay her way with."
"You are welcome to the paper and the writing, Adam. You can pay for the stamp afterwards, if you like."
Very warm were Adam's thanks, though his face said as much as his words. Mr. Drummond would have gladly given him a dozen stamps, had his correspondence required. But he rightly judged that this man, so unlike many of those around him, would shrink from coming to him a second time, if he were not allowed to pay his penny, even though the manager had offered to write for him as often as might be necessary during Mrs. Livesey's absence.
That very afternoon, when the men left work, Adam lingered for some time outside the great gates, in the hope of seeing Mr. Drummond. His face lighted up with pleasure when at length he came towards them, and taking off his old cap, he said, "May I speak, sir, just a minute?"
"Certainly, Livesey; what is it?"
"When you were writing for me, you put something about a sovereign in the letter. I wanted to tell you how I came by it. It's hardly mine, like, now;" and in a few words, Adam explained why such an unwonted sum was in his keeping.
For a moment, Mr. Drummond was puzzled to understand why Adam had deemed such an explanation necessary. Then it flashed upon him that he had hunted for the threepenny piece, and spoken of it as if it were all the money he possessed, though he had alluded in his letter to the unbroken sovereign. He was afraid that Mr. Drummond might think him wanting in straightforwardness, and could not rest till the matter was cleared up.
The manager was pleased, but frankly owned that he had noticed that which had troubled Adam. Then he added,
"I was glad to see you at the Mission Room on Monday. I hoped you would like the service well enough to come again."
"I want to do, sir, and now the letter to Maggie is mostly off my mind, I'm hoping I shall be in time to-night. I should ha' gone last night, only there's a young woman doing for us all while Margaret's away, and she's fond o' preachin's and such-like, so I thought she ought to have her turn. I might ha' left that little lass of mine to look after the lesser ones, but she has her bits o' lessons to learn, and it's no good loadin' 'em too heavy, poor things! They can only be young once."
Adam was astonished at himself that he could talk "so free like" to the manager, and Mr. Drummond was pleased to see that the ice between them, once broken, was not likely to close over again.
"You were quite right, Adam. The little ones often have too much to bear, and are made to grow old too soon. I am glad that you want to save yours as far as you can. I respect you more for staying away than I should have done for coming last night. But I shall look for you again this evening."
With a kindly nod, the manager went homewards, and Adam, watching him till he was out of sight, said to himself, "Here now is something else to thank God for. He must ha' made Mr. Drummond so kind to me, for I've done nothing myself."
Truly, many a mere man of the world may feel inclined to scoff at this simple account of the manager's intercourse with Adam Livesey, and say, "How unlikely that a person in such a position of authority would trouble himself about one
filling so low a place as that of the striker! To a gentleman acting as the head and manager of a great concern employing many hundreds of hands, what would one humble labourer be but an item in the mass of human machines moving like clockwork around him?"
Probably in many such places, the humbler toilers are never noticed, could not even be known by name or sight to those so far above them.
They are too many, too much alike, as they pour in and out of the business hive. Many a manager, especially one who had risen from the ranks, would have been afraid to risk his dignity by such free interchange of thought with a man who was never likely to get beyond the lowest rung of the social ladder.
Others would have thought themselves in danger of losing the respect of their inferiors in station, or have been too proud to stoop.
But Mr. Drummond was not merely the head man at Rutherford's, next to the partners themselves, he was a Christian whom the Holy Spirit had taught the value of his own soul, and the love of God for sinners. Could he be stooping or lessening himself by striving to do good to those for whom Jesus died? Had not the Master made Himself of no reputation, and come as man amongst men?
Ought he then to let pride of place hinder him from doing what he could on behalf of those amongst whom the good providence of God had brought him, and by most unlooked-for means?
Every feeling of gratitude and thankfulness to God forbade this. The constraining love of Christ within his heart forbade it. And so, while as yet he could do but little, Mr.
Drummond resolved to make a beginning. If he could not get hold of the great mass of toiling humanity around him, he would devote the best powers he had to one at first. Circumstances turned his attention to Adam Livesey, and for this man's conversion to God he was striving on earth, and pleading, for Jesus' sake, to heaven.
Worldlings may smile, infidels may scoff at such a picture. But, God be thanked, there are yet many men, and women, too, on earth who are moved by a like spirit to that which impelled the new manager at Rutherford's.
CHAPTER XV.
CONSCIENCE AT WORK.
WHEN Mrs. Livesey parted with her husband at the railway station, she little thought that she would be a full month absent from her home and family. But so it proved.
It seemed that the daughter's visit produced a good effect on the sick mother, for after Margaret's arrival, Mrs. Allison brightened visibly. Those about her began to think that the patient would yet recover, in spite of the doctor's opinion to the contrary. The improvement did not, however, last, though it is probable that Mrs. Allison lingered longer, owing to the pleasure and comfort she derived from the sight of her youngest child.
Another feeling mingled with that of joy. She could not look at Margaret's changed face without pain and remorse, and an ever-present wish that she had not left her to herself. She thought that a selfish feeling on her own part had induced her to countenance Adam Livesey's addresses to pretty Maggie, and that the girl had never crossed her in any serious matter since she knew the difference between right and wrong, added to her own mental discomfort. Often did she draw Margaret's thin face down to hers, and whisper, "You don't feel vexed at your mother, do you, my dear?"
And the younger woman would smooth her pillow, and kiss her, denying stoutly the while that she was the least bit vexed about what had passed.
"You did it for the best, mother. It was no wonder you went away, for you never had any peace, what with me and the children. We were always at you, one or other of us; and when folks are getting on in years they can't stand things like young ones."
"I was not so very old then, Margaret, and I'm not to call a real aged woman now. Only just turned sixty-five. You see the being quiet and comfortable don't make folks live any longer."
"Maybe you'll get better yet," said Mrs. Livesey. "I'm sure I wish you may be spared for many a year to come. Why, for all you are so poorly, and have been a fortnight in bed, your face is fuller than mine, and you've more colour in it. Why, I expect if I go on as I'm doing till I'm sixty-five, I shall look a hundred years old at the least."
Margaret was giving her mother the best consolation she knew how to offer. Was not the hope of getting well
again the only thing likely to cheer an invalid?
It would have been to herself, for life, with all its troubles, must, she thought, be better than death.
"You look sadly too old, my poor lass," said the sick woman. "No wonder, borne down as you've been. But I hope you will grow younger again yet."
"That would be going t'other way about from what one expects, mother. But don't you fret over spilt milk. I've had hard work, no mistake about that, and little to do with. Still, if you could ha' looked into our bit of a place as I left it, you would ha' said there wasn't a dirty corner. The children, poor things, haven't many clothes, but they've a change apiece of under things, and no holes or rags. Then, whether we've little or much, we pay as we go on. You taught me that lesson, mother; so we are never afraid, let who may knock at the door."
"You must ha' done wonders with such little wages."
"I've done my best, but then, you see, mother, I had all he earned to do it with. If I'd had to deal with some men, the house and children would ha' been lost in dirt and rags. But Adam is a real good 'un in his quiet way. Turning up every penny to me, and taking just what I could give him. Never drinking, nor grumbling, nor swearing, though he might have got mad with me many a time. I was always quick, you know, mother, and what I've had to go through has not made me sweeter-tempered. That poor fellow at home has had something to stand, specially these last years."
It will be seen that Margaret Livesey was not wanting in perception. She had a good deal of self-knowledge, and was frank enough in alluding to her own short-comings.
