instinctively, and that of a peasant may throb with purer feeling than
a philosopher's and for that reason be more ready to receive religious
truth. And who may limit the grace of God?"

"You have thought deeper on this subject than I, Faith. But how
hard must it be for the rays of divine truth to pierce through the
blackness of that degradation which civilization has entailed on them!
The conversion of the North American Indian was easier at the landing
of the Pilgrims than now."

"The greater our duty," exclaimed Faith, clasping her hands, "to atone
for the wrongs we have inflicted. But, William, some good has been
done. Look at my dear, good Esther."

"Esther deserves your praise, I am sure, because you say it. But it is
you that have made her good. She could not be with you, without being
benefited."

"You are very kind, but no merit attaches to me. They were the
precepts of Christianity that softened her heart, though she was
always gentle."

"It was the sweetness of religion she heard in your voice, its
kindness she read in your eyes, and its loveliness illustrated in your
life, that attracted and improved Esther"

"Were I to admit what you say, the credit would, after all, belong to
religion."

The sun had nearly reached his meridian, as the young couple