litary's faith in the speedy coming of a mighty change, speculated
on the future, he disclosed the last evidence of the affection of his
preserver. Holden listened with a gratified air, for how could he be
otherwise than pleased that the worth and amiable qualities of his
son, had awakened so deep an interest in the heart of another, but
replied,

"It was well meant, but unnecessary. Thou hast no need of the gold and
silver of others."

The young man, supposing his father had reference to his peculiar
religious notions, was silent, for it was a subject which could not be
adverted to without great delicacy, and danger of vehement bursts of
enthusiasm.

"Thou comprehendest me not," said Holden. "I say thou art in no
want of the dross with which men buy, to their grief and shame, the
deluding vanities of the world."

"If it is your wish, father, I will return the gift," said Pownal,
"though I know it will hurt the generous heart of the giver."

"I interpose not. No voice calleth me thereto. But my meaning is still
dark, and I know not whether it is best to admit thee fully to my
counsels. Yet, thus much mayest thou now know, and more shalt thou
know hereafter, that thy father is no pauper, to crave the wealth of
others, and that his poverty is voluntary. The body is kept poor, that
divine grace may the more readily enrich the soul."

"Believe me, sir, I do not wish to intrude into anything which it is
your desire to keep secret."

"There is nothing secret that shall not be revealed," exclaimed
Holden, catching at the last word, "but everything in its own order.
Let it satisfy thee, therefore, my son, to know for the present that
thy father hath but to stretch forth his hand and it shall be filled,
but to knock and it shall be opened. But this is not the day, nor for
my own sake, should the clock of time ever strike the hour, when that
which was thrown away shall be taken again, that which was despised
shall be valued. Yet because of thee may I not lawfully withhold the
hand, and as I gaze upon thy fair young face, thou seemest one whose
spirit is so balanced that what men call prosperity will not hurt
thee. But affection is blind, and my heart may deceive me, and
therefore will I wait until He speaks who cannot lead astray or
deceive."

It was partly to himself, and partly to his son, that the Solitary
spoke, nor was Pownal at all certain that he comprehended his meaning.
He had at first fancied, his father was