ars of his precious
documents, and no more threats were indulged in. The lady did not deem
it wise to raise the question again, and seeing that nothing but harm
could have arisen by doing it, I commend her for the wisdom of resisting
the temptation of an inquiring mind. This woman's long-suffering,
tactful endurance is an example of splendid magnanimity that might be
emulated with advantage by those who may come under the devilish lash
of similar treatment, and who may be prompted by the spirit of
rebellion to make matters worse by indiscreet retaliation. The good
woman won back the loyalty of her poor erring partner by her persistent
gentleness and toleration.

The following is a portion of a letter I have come across, written many
years ago, in which the writer's concern for the spiritual well-being
of her sailor brother is very apparent. She knew that it was letters
such as this that appealed to the susceptible seafarers. I have said it
was their habit to read and re-read their letters every Sunday,
especially if they were of a sentimental or religious character. Much
of this letter is obliterated, as the person to whom it was addressed
tumbled overboard with it in his pocket, and it has crumbled away:

"MY OWN DARLING BROTHER,--I cannot tell you all the joy I feel at
being able to write to you in England again. It has seemed a long
time while you have been away, and yet now, when you are nearly
beside us again, it seems but as yesterday. This may arrive before
you, but still it is happiness to think that your vessel's prow is
turned homeward. Our love and prayers have travelled with you all
the way, and I thank God that you are preserved thus far, and trust
He will bring you safe to us all. I know you will be as glad as we
are, and I know, too, that though it has pleased God to give you
the blessing of that best love of all earthly love, yet you prize
the old ties of home.

* * * * * *

"I think to cherish those who have loved him all his life is not
the least of a man's duties, but I think where the love is, people
don't think about the duty of it at all; it is given and received
as a mutual blessing, for which the heart often rises up in silent
thanksgiving. I trust, my dear, that you are keeping to your
determination to live to God's glory. Don't be discouraged because
of the difficulties of the wa