ere we to sleep at a public inn."

These arguments at once overcame any scruples Nigel might have felt at
going to a stranger's house uninvited.

It yet wanted a couple of hours to sunset when they reached a good-sized
mansion, though not possessing the pretensions of a nobleman's chateau.
The owner, a man advanced in life, of gentlemanly refined manner,
received Maitre Leroux in a friendly way, and on hearing from him who
Nigel was, welcomed him cordially. Nigel was conducted into a saloon,
where he was introduced to his host's wife and daughters and several
other members of the family. Supper was quickly prepared, and Nigel
found himself at once at home.

As soon as the meal was over several other persons came in, some
apparently of the same rank as the host, and others of an inferior
order, but all staid and serious in their demeanour. The doors and
windows were then carefully closed, and Nigel observed that two of the
party went out armed with swords and pistols, apparently to watch the
approach to the house.

A large Bible was now produced, and several of the party drew forth
smaller editions from beneath their garments. The host then offered up
a prayer, and opening the Bible, read a portion, commenting as he
proceeded. A hymn was then sung and more of the Scriptures read, after
which the host delivered an address full of gospel truth, while he
exhorted his hearers to hold fast to the faith, but at the same time
remarked that they would be justified in flying from persecution if no
other means could be found of avoiding it at home. He reminded all
present, however, that their duty was to pray for their persecutors, and
however cruelly treated, not to return evil for evil. Nigel was
reminded of various meetings of the same character he had attended in
Scotland, where, however, every man could speak out boldly, without the
fear of interruption which seemed to pervade the minds of those present.
He now knew that his host was one of the many Protestants existing in
the country who ventured thus in secret to worship God according to
their consciences, even though running the risk of being condemned to
death as heretics.

After the guests had retired, the family spent some time in singing
Marot's hymns.

"Ah!" said the host, "it is only in praising God and reading His blessed
words that we can take any pleasure. It is our consolation and delight,
and enables us without complaining to endure the sad condit