nine days’ gossip and wonder, the gibes and comments my course may occasion.  I am hearkening to the counsel of my conscience; I am obeying the dictates of my heart.  Feeling that my God accepts me, it matters little that men may reject me.  My remorse, my repentance, has been inexpressibly bitter; but the darkness has passed away, and to-day, thank God!  I can pray with all the fervor and faith of my boyhood, when I knew that I was at peace with my Maker.  Oblivion of the past I do not expect, and perhaps should not desire.  I shall always wear my melancholy memories of sin, as Musselmen wear their turban or pall—­as a continual memento of death.  Because I have proved so fully the inadequacy of earthly enjoyments to satisfy the demands of a soul; because I tried the alluring pleasures of sin, and was satiated, ah! utterly sickened, I turned with panting eagerness to the cool, quiet peace which reigns over the life of a true Christian pastor.  I want neither fame nor popularity, but peace! peace I must have!  I have hunted the world over and over; I have sought it everywhere else, and now, thank God!  I feel that it is descending slowly, slowly, but surely, upon my lonely, long-tortured heart.  Thank God!  I have found peace after much strife and great weariness—­”

Mr. Murray could no longer control his voice; and as he stood leaning against the mantelpiece at the parsonage, he dropped his head on his hand.

“St. Elmo, the purity of your motives will never be questioned, for none who knows you could believe you capable of dissembling in this matter; and my heart can scarcely contain its joy when I look forward to your future, so bright with promise, so full of usefulness.  The marked change in your manner during the past two years has prepared this community for the important step you are to take to-day, and your influence with young men will be incalculable.  Once your stern bitterness rendered you an object of dread; now I find that you are respected, and people here watch your conduct with interest, and even with anxiety.  Ah, St. Elmo, I never imagined earth held as much pure happiness as is my portion to-day.  To see you one of God’s anointed!  To see you ministering in the temple!  Oh! to know that when I am gone to rest you will take my place, guard my flock, do your own work and poor Murray’s, and finish mine!  This, this is indeed the crowning blessing of my old age.”

For some minutes, Mr. Hammond sobbed; and lifting his face, Mr. Murray answered: 

“As I think of the coming years consecrated to Christ, passed peacefully in endeavoring to atone for the injury and suffering I have inflicted on my fellow-creatures; oh! as the picture of a calm, useful, holy future rises before me, I feel indeed that I am unworthy, most unworthy of my peace; but, thank God!

  ’Oh!  I see the crescent promise of my spirit hath not set;
   Ancient founts of inspiration well through all my fancy yet.’”