Soon after the sexton came in, and Paul of course, told his story over
again.

"Never mind, Paul," said Uncle Hugh, cheerily. "You know your own
innocence; that is the main thing. It's a great thing to have a clear
conscience."

"But I liked Mr. Danforth and I think he liked me. It's hard to feel
that he and Mrs. Danforth will both think me guilty, especially after
the kindness which I have experienced from them."

"We all have our crosses, my boy,--some light and others heavy. Yours, I
admit is a heavy one for a boy to bear. But when men are unjust there is
One above who will deal justly with us. You have not forgotten him."

"No, Uncle Hugh," said Paul, reverently.

"Trust in him, Paul, and all will come out right at last. He can prove
your innocence, and you may be sure he will, in his own good time. Only
be patient, Paul."

"I will try to be, Uncle Hugh."

The simple, hearty trust in God, which the sexton manifested, was not
lost upon Paul. Sustained by his own consciousness of innocence, and
the confidence reposed in him by those who knew him best, his mind soon
regained its cheerful tone. He felt an inward conviction that God would
vindicate his innocence.

His vindication came sooner than he anticipated.

The next day as the sexton's family were seated at their plain dinner, a
knock was heard upon the outer door.

"Sit still, Hester," said Mr. Cameron. "I will go to the door."

Opening the door he recognized Mr. Danforth, who attended the same
church.

"Mr. Cameron, I believe," said Mr. Danforth, pleasantly.

"Yes, sir."

"May I come in? I am here on a little business."

"Certainly, Mr. Danforth. Excuse my not inviting you before; but in my
surprise at seeing you, I forgot my politeness."

The sexton led the way into the plain sitting-room.

"I believe Paul Prescott is an inmate of your family."

"Yes, sir. I am sorry----"

"I know what you would say, sir; but it is needless. May I see Paul a
moment?"

Paul was surprised at the summons, and still more surprised at finding
who it was that wished to see him.

He entered the room slowly, uncertain how to accost Mr. Danforth. His
employer solved the doubt in his mind by advancing cordially, and taking
his hand.

"Paul," he said pleasantly, "I have come here to ask your forgiveness
for an injustice, and to beg you to resume your place in my
counting-room."

"Have you found out who took the money, sir?" asked Paul, eagerly.

"Yes."