n. In public and private
life he was a pattern of excellence. Surely his mother must have looked
upon such a son with feelings of gratitude and even pride. As you enter
the door, from which no poor man was ever turned empty away, and
crossing the hall, advance into the elegant parlor to greet your host
and his amiable wife, you can fancy a smile of satisfaction upon the
lips of that mother's portrait, which hangs in the place of honor on the
wall, a smile which seems to say, "this is my eldest born." But, alas!
it was for this son that that mother had put up her last prayer--for him
it was, she had poured forth her soul, and now years have passed since
he stood by her helpless remains, and her petition is still unanswered.

* * * * *

It is a May morning, two years later, and cheerily does the sun shine
upon the village of ----. The pine forest at a little distance, sheds
forth after the last night's rain that fragrance which is so delicious,
the fields are gay with dandelions, the brooks yellow with the American
cowslip, close beside which peeps forth the lovely veronica, while
yonder slope is enameled with bright blue violets, and the little white
Mayflower. But no children are seen plucking them. The very herds in the
field low in a subdued manner, and the birds warble their gladsome
spring song with a depth which belongs only to sacred music. None are
moving about the streets. The church doors are open, however, for it is
the Sabbath. Come with me to yonder mansion--the tasteful shrubbery, the
vine-covered window, the well arranged garden bespeak for its possessor
wealth and luxury. Enter with me, but tread lightly as we ascend the
staircase. Upon that white curtained bed, raised by pillows, reposes
one who has numbered more than sixty summers. His brow is scarcely
furrowed, though his face is thin. His clasped hands are emaciated, but
he does not look old. The fever spot burns in his cheeks, and his eye is
lighted up with a heavenly ray, which shows that now at least the soul
is triumphing over the body.

A small table, covered with damask of snowy whiteness, stands near, on
which are placed the emblems of the broken body and poured-forth blood
of our Redeemer. A few Christian brethren and sisters are kneeling
around, and the pastor is blessing the bread. Methinks "it is good to be
here." The great Master is present, and "his banner over this little
company is love." One can almost