r that the Master was tempted in
all points, like as we are, and that it is said of the saints in glory
that they came to their reward through great tribulation.

There can be no greater tribulation than for one to be born with a
nature that is intrinsically false, fickle, passionate, impulsive--in a
word, such a nature as "Dodd" naturally possessed--a nature far away
from the line of truth and right; a nature such as multitudes of boys
are born with in this wide, wide world of ours. To guide safely into
the port of rest souls thus weighted down with depravity is a task for
gods and men to compass--if they can. The chances of wreck are many
fold to one; but now and then the harbor is made, thank God!

It has seemed best to me to tell the tale of one such voyage of life.
There is no denying that the journey was a perilous one, such a one as
would probably wreck ninety-nine out of one hundred crafts attempting
it; yet, for all of that, there is joy over the one that comes through.

I am aware that "Dodd" Weaver has had more chances than any one person
ought ever reasonably to expect. But Providence is sometimes bountiful
in opportunities, even to prodigality. "Dodd" doubtless had more
chances than he ought to have had, in the strict line of justice; but
we must all plead guilty to the same charge, in a greater or less
degree. It is likely, however, that no more opportunities have come to
any of us than were necessary to bring us safely to our journey's
close. "There is a divinity that shapes our ends."

I am glad "Dodd" Weaver had as many chances as he had. I am glad he
didn't need any more of the same sort, for they might not have been
forthcoming. There is such a thing as being too late.

My hope for you, beloved, is that you, too, may have chances, and that
you may take them while you can. I would that you might reach the goal
of success in life by a shorter route than "Dodd" had to take; but if
not, then may you come by the way he trod. The road is not unused, you
will not be alone in your travels.

One last word regarding the public school, for whose sake all this has
been set down:

In the evolution of character, in these last days, this institution has
come to be a most important factor. To it has been assigned a task
equal to, if not exceeding that of any other agency that has to deal
with human nature. It is more important than can be set forth that it
do its work well. It is not so doing now,