VII.

VICTORY!

The deserted rooms on Burton street suddenly became the scene of great activity early Monday afternoon.

Mrs. Gray's supersensitive conscience would not admit of her neglecting her charges, so in consequence her visit was made a few hours shorter than first planned.

The fire was out, and no trace could she find of Rosa and grandpa. She "hollered till her throat was sore," looked in every reasonable—and unreasonable—corner, searched up and down the hall, inquired of her neighbors, visited the corner grocery, but all to no avail.

"Land sakes!" over and over she repeated to a group of interested spectators, "I might a-know'd better'n to have gone off and left them. This is jest my luck, anyhow. The first time I've been away in five years, then have this happen. I'm jest real provoked, and I don't think a body could blame me, either. But it all comes of me bein' so obligin'. If it wuzn't fer my tender heart, I'd never kep' Tom's father, nor took Mis' Browning's young one, then I could come and go as I pleased and not be pestered this way. There ain't many that'd do fer others what I do, and I never git no thanks fer it, neither. If I hadn't had father to board all these years, I might have somethin' laid up fer a rainy day, and there ain't nobody but what'll say I'm industrious and savin'.

"But I can't think where they'd go, nor what I can do. It seems like somebody'd seen them. I'll fix them when they git back, so as they'll never do it ag'in. It looks like they'd been gone fer some time, and I do b'lieve they've been into the tea and stove blackin'. I never thought about blackin', who would? but I told them not to touch that tea, fer I couldn't afford it. They'll be sorry, they will, when I git hold of them.

"Here you, Billy Bruce!" she vociferously called, catching sight of that youth running down the stairs three steps at a time; "come right back here at fast as you can, and tell me what you know about Rosa and grandpa. You're always under foot a-knowin' what's a-goin' on, so I 'spose if anybody seen them you did."

Billy feared Mrs. Gray more than he did the judge or policeman—that is, at close range; but when occupying the vantage-ground, as at the present, he delighted in revolt.

"I didn't either see them," he shouted back, "and don't know nothin' about them, only I'd run off, too, if I wuz them."

At this the greatly abused and misunderstood woman picked up a piece of coal to hurl at the rapidly retreating young rebel, when, to her astonishment, she saw coming up the steps the transformed Rosa with Esther!

"You'd better look out, Rosa," confidently explained Billy, "she's awful mad, and you may git that lickin' yet, you said she'd been a-promisin'."

Rosa shrank in terror, her face growing pale and twitching nervously, while an inclination to run away with her barbarous but devoted champion took possession of her.

"Never mind, dear," whispered Esther reassuringly, "she will do you no harm while I am with you. You need not be at all afraid."

Upon looking into the fearless blue eyes of Esther, Mrs. Gray suddenly determined to change her plan of attack.

"Land sakes, Rosa! I've been that worried about you and father, the dear old soul,—where is he? and where have you been, and where did you git them pretty clothes? Why didn't you tell me you wanted to go on a visit, and what made you stay so long? Of course it wuz awful lonesome here without me, so I won't blame you much, but children'd ought to tell."

Not giving the child an opportunity to answer, a volley of interrogations and information was turned upon Esther.

"What's your name? Esther Fairfax, is it? well, now that's a real pretty name, but do come right in and set down. Things is in a muss, fer I've been gone, and children don't amount to much fer work, 'specially when they ain't been raised right. I ain't had her long, you know, or she'd be different. Her ma wuz awful queer and silly about her. But where did you find her? You wuz real thoughtful to bring her back to me, so as I wouldn't worry any longer'n necessary. I 'spose you found her clothes in bad shape. Her ma's been dead now a while, and didn't keep things up as well as she might anyhow, I thought, fer some time. She wuz one of them women that gives up easy, but that's somethin' I never do. I've been a-layin' out to show Rosa how to sew. She's plenty old enough, and I ain't got no time to do it myself. But then I never did b'lieve in bringin' them up lazy. There's a lot in gittin' them started right.

"And where on earth's the old man? I can't think how you found them. Seems like a month since I seen him, but then I have more attachment and affection than most folks, or I wouldn't a been so flustered. I hope he's acted with some sense, so as I won't have to be mortified."

Endeavoring to impress her guest favorably, Mrs. Gray, while talking, was energetically moving about the room, making some pretense toward bringing order out of confusion.

"That grease spot down there on the floor by the stove does really worry me a heap, and I'd really ought to—"

At this Rosa cast a glance at the whip still reposing above the door, and tightened her clasp upon Esther's hand.

"Father's awful childish, and I have to treat him jest like a child, too, or I couldn't git on with him no how. I've kep' him now, well, let me see: it's a-goin' on six years since Tom got killed, and I've been a-supportin' him ever since, and no tellin' how much longer he'll live. If it wuzn't fer my kind heart, I'd tell him he'd have to leave. I've thought of it some lately, but then s'pose I never will. Then when Mis' Browning died, of course she wanted me to raise Rosa. It's a good thing she did die fer now Rosa'll learn to do somethin' more'n jest to be kissed and cried over. I used to git that provoked at her ma fer actin' so silly. I didn't say she could stay here only till spring. Of course she come in real handy like when father didn't mind and I twisted my ankle, but then it's sech a bother to raise a child. When she ain't no more use to me, I don't know how it'll be then."

During this recital, Esther's face was a study. She had visited much among the poor with her father, but never before had she come into contact with quite so unusual a character as Mrs. Gray. Finding that her only opportunity to state her errand was to interrupt the loquacious speaker, she determined to wait no longer.

"Mrs. Gray, I have come to tell you that you will never again be troubled by grandpa or Rosa. Grandpa is in my home, and the physician says that he can live but a few hours longer. He has had a raging fever, but that has left now; he is entirely rational and wishes to see you before the Master calls.

"My carriage is waiting. There is no time to lose. Put on your wraps and come immediately."

So surprised was Mrs. Gray that for the instant an almost unprecedented thing occurred: she could think of nothing to say. But endeavoring to gain her normal poise, she turned upon Rosa.

"Well, you heard what the lady said! Father, the dear old soul, of course he wants to see me before he dies, after all I've done fer him; but how lonely it'll be without him! Seems like I can see him a-settin' over there in his chair now, a-lookin' out of the winder, like he did 'most all day sometimes."

At this appropriate juncture, she made a fruitless effort to shed a few tears, but, to be charitable, the deepest sorrow cannot find expression in tears.

"You can stay here, Rosa, and have supper ready when I git back, and make me some tea; I'll need it to settle my nerves. Take them fine clothes off, too, before you spoil 'em. I want you to learn to be savin', like I've always been. And give that grease spot another scrubbin', and go to the corner grocery and git—"

"No, Mrs. Gray," vehemently interposed Esther, "did I not tell you that Rosa is never going to live with you again? You are about to realize your dream of liberty, for which without a doubt you are duly grateful. You seem to feel that both grandpa and Rosa have been intolerable burdens."

Esther was the repetition of her father, and when the case demanded could be firm and commandingly dignified.

Again Mrs. Gray was speechless. For so long she had been absolute monarch in her small realm, with none daring to question or to rise in rebellion, that it was a revelation to find in a young woman like Esther an opposite and stronger force with which to reckon.

For the first time in her life she was completely conquered, and without another word marched solemnly down to the carriage.

"This is an opportunity," thought Esther, "and may I be directed in all I say."

Not wishing this woman possessed of a hard heart and a shriveled soul to stand in awe of her any longer, a few kind and ordinary remarks soon accomplished the desired end.

"Well, Miss Esther, you ain't told me how it's all come about. I can't fer the life of me think, and it all seems so strange. I jest can't git it through my head that father's a-goin' to die. Are you real sure of it? Mebbe there's a mistake."

"No, Mrs. Gray, there is no mistake. In a few hours he will be safe forever in the better land."

Esther's power of narration was well developed. Going into the minute details, she simply told the whole story, while Mrs. Gray attentively listened without an interruption. There were indications that the hitherto impregnable fortress of this untutored woman's heart was beginning to totter. But is there after all in this great world a heart so loveless, so blackened by sin, or so narrowed by its own selfish domain, as to be entirely invincible? Cannot the love emanating from Christ Himself, flowing through the channel of a surrendered life, leave its impress where all else fails?

Esther's observant eye noted the change, then skilfully she began speaking of the Lord as a personal Saviour.

Presently tears began rolling down the hardened cheeks, causing the young messenger to feel that victory was almost certain.

Upon reaching the Fairfax home, Mrs. Gray was ushered into a room, which to her seemed magnificent.

Grandpa was lying upon an immaculate bed, while everything surrounding him was far more indicative of loving thoughtfulness than of luxury. In his hand he clasped a beautiful rose, because during his rational moments he so often spoke of the "pretty roses a-growin' by the brook down in the lane." The rose was presented by none other than Dr. Dale, not—so he assured himself—that he was in the least sympathetic with the Fairfaxes in their eccentric freak. It was simply for the good of the patient that all small whims be humored.

Upon a nearby table was Esther's violin. During the long hours of the preceding night, when the burning fever produced a great restlessness in the weary sufferer, nothing soothed him but the low, sweet strains of music.

Now he was calm, and for the first time since Tom died clothed in his right mind.

"Sary, how be you?" he feebly asked, as she slowly walked up to his side. "I'm so glad you've come, fer it's all straightened out now, and I want to thank you afore I go fer all you've done fer me. And may somebody take care of you real kind when you git old and can't work no more. I've been a big bother, Sary. You've had a good deal to put up with since Tom died, but you've been mighty kind. You've always give me enough to eat, and kep' me warm, and you've had to work awful hard to do it. I thank you, Sary, and may God bless you! But I do want you to find Jesus, the way to the beautiful land. You won't have it so hard there. He's paid for everything, and it's free fer the askin'."

"Oh, father," she said, dropping upon her knees and weeping bitterly for the first time in many years, "you ain't got nothin' to thank me fer. I've never seen till jest this minute how awful mean I've been. You did your very best to please me, and the harder you tried, the more I scolded. I wish I'd been better to you. No, you ain't got nothin' at all to thank me fer, and I'll miss you so! I don't know why I've never seen it before, and you've always been so good. I'll never git over feelin' mean about it, no, I never will, oh dear, dear!"

"There, there, Sary, don't cry! It's all right now."

Tenderly he stroked the hand which many times had been raised threateningly against him, and tried to soothe the thoroughly conscience-striken woman.

"Sary, I do want you to find Jesus. It's so mighty sweet to know Him, and He'll help you over all the hard places,—He says He will; and He always carries the heavy end of the load, too."

"I'm too wicked and mean, father. He wouldn't have me," she sobbed, "but I wish He would; I need Him bad, and want help."

"Mrs. Gray,"—it was the minister who spoke and who had been a silent witness of the pathetic scene,—"Jesus died to save you."

"I wish I knew it," she moaned, "but I'm too mean. I'm the biggest sinner in the world to treat father and Rosa the way I have."

"If you are the biggest sinner in the world, then I know that Jesus died to save you. Listen to His word: 'This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.' You consider yourself the chief of sinners, do you?"

"Yes, I do; I know I am."

"Who came to save the chief of sinners?"

"Why, the verse says Christ Jesus did."

"Yes, Mrs. Gray, that is true. Then whom did Jesus Christ come to save?"

"Oh, He came to save me, He came to save me! How could He ever do it?"

"Just because God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Do you believe it?"

"Yes, how can I help it, when He done all that?"

"Then if you believe in Him, what have you?"

"Everlasting life! Everlasting life!" Dreamily, yet joyously, she repeated the words many times, trying to comprehend their fathomless depths.

"But," she anxiously asked, "what about my sins? You don't know how mean I've been."

"'And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.'"

"Oh, thank God, thank God! He's give me everlasting life, and won't remember my sins. I want to begin all over now, and do somethin' fer Him before I die."

In broken petitions she poured forth her heart in prayer to God, while at the same moment angelic songs were started anew around the throne above. Another soul was born again.

Is there less rejoicing over there when the soul saved chances to be the tenant of a roughly-hewn temple? Ah no, for it required the shedding of just the same precious blood as for the souls of earth's greatest and noblest!

An expression of unspeakable peace lighted up grandpa's happy face, as he murmured:

"Oh, Sary, I'm so glad, so mighty glad! Now I'll tell Tom you're a-comin', and we'll both be a-watchin' fer you. Won't we be happy when we all git safe home? Goodby, Sary! You've always been a good woman, yes, a very good woman, and now Jesus will take care of you. Goodby, till we meet ag'in!"

The effort of speaking seemed to exhaust him perceptably, and he sank off into a deep sleep.

It was evident that the end was near, and hastily Dr. Dale was summoned. Upon examining his patient, he found that in a few minutes, or perhaps a half an hour at the most, all would be over.

Silently they watched him. Rosa understood better now than she did a few weeks before what the "moving" meant. She knew that she would be lonely without grandpa, her one comforter through many a dark and dreary hour, and the tears began to gather.

At this Dr. Dale became restless. Just to avoid a scene, he took the little girl up into his arms, wiping away the tears and whispering words of comfort.

Mrs. Gray sat nearest the dying man, gently smoothing back the snowy locks from his forehead. His breath was growing shorter and shorter, but there was no struggle. Suddenly his eyes opened, and with a smile of recognition he greeted each one.

"Oh," he faintly whispered, "Jesus is the way, Jesus is the way! Sing to me my song, won't you, please?"

With difficulty Esther and her father complied with the request, while the doctor walked nervously up and down the room with Rosa still in his arms.

"Oh, how sweet it will be in that beautiful land, So free from all sorrow and pain, With songs on our lips and with harps in our hands, To meet one another again!"

As the words of the last verse died away, the soul took its flight to rejoice forever in the presence of the King.

"O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? Thanks be to God which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."



VIII.

DUST TO DUST.

The events of Sunday morning had occasioned much comment upon the part of Dr. Fairfax's parishioners.

The majority, after taking time for consideration, approved, and became intensely interested to know the outcome of the strange proceeding. During the few hours of grandpa's illness many messengers called to learn the latest news, and it cheered the pastor's heart to find that after all he was far from being alone in his love for God's neglected poor.

He had planned a quiet funeral, and was arranging to that effect when requests from all sides began pouring in that it might be held in the church.

"It is a signal opportunity, father," Esther had said when consulted, so a public funeral was soon announced together with another innovation. Instead of the customary floral offerings, it was suggested that the people bring gifts of money to place upon the casket, to be used in the forwarding of city mission work.

At the hour appointed, the small procession wended its way to the church.

Dr. Dale had found it advisable for himself and wife to join the funeral party. It was natural that Esther should look after Mrs. Gray, who never before had been in so fine a building, and it would be awkward for her to have charge of Rosa as well. Then really the child was very nervous and might suddenly need professional attention. All things considered, there was no alternative: he must keep her with him.

Both curiosity and genuine interest attracted a great crowd, causing the pastor once more to feel his need of hiding behind the cross, that the people might behold Jesus only.

In all his wide and varied experience, this funeral pre-eminently was the most unique. Conventionality was laid aside. There was no sermon, but the story of the last few days of the victor's life was told so graphically that the audience was held in almost breathless silence.

"Brethren," said the speaker in closing, "how must we appear in the sight of God, who loved us to the extent of giving His only Son to die for our sins, when it is possible for one to live long, weary years in our midst with none to tell him of Jesus? Can we expect ever to hear from His lips the welcome plaudit, 'Well done!' when we are no more zealous than this for the souls whom He came to save?

"I fear that many who profess to love Him will fall far short of the 'abundant entrance,' and will stand ashamed before Him at His appearing.

"Can it be true that we are selfish to the extent of being satisfied simply with our own salvation, when His heart of infinite love and compassion is yearning with unfathomable tenderness over the lost?

"We have the opportunity now which angels may well covet, that of leading souls to Christ. This priceless privilege is intrusted to us only for the one brief moment of our earthly existence, and how we should prize it above all things else!

"Consider the fact that one million of years hence, yea, millions of millions of years, your happiness and capacity for enjoying Christ and heaven depend upon the manner of your spending this present vapor called life. When eventually we are ushered through the gates of the Eternal City, it will then be forever too late for this one blood-purchased pleasure of telling salvation's story to the lost.

"It seems a paradox that it is possible for one to be a Christian without having a consuming passion for souls. But in reality the whole matter centers not upon our love for those around us, but upon our love for the Lord Jesus Himself. When we are in unbroken fellowship with Christ, the natural result is love for those so dear to Him. 'The love of Jesus is not an absorbing, but a radiating love. The more we love Him, the more shall we most certainly love others.' Each new revelation of Himself graciously granted unto His followers only draws us the nearer to Him, the fountain of eternal love, where we drink to our fill and are imbued with an all-consuming desire to carry the life-giving water unto others.

"Nor can we gaze long at the cross, at the cruelly mutilated brow of our Saviour, at His body torn and bruised by the merciless scourging, at the five bleeding wounds, nor can we listen to the cry of His broken heart, 'My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?' without being melted with love and filled with a holy zeal to serve Him every moment of our lives. One real view of the cross changes all. The things of this life, where we shall be located and how we shall be situated, will have no more effect upon us, if only we may glorify Him.

"Many have taken the first step, giving into His keeping their souls for eternity, but will you not now, while beholding Him hanging on yonder cross for you, give Him your lives as well? The only life worth the living is the surrendered life. Time is uncertain, eternity sure. Now and only now may we prove to Him our love, and know the fellowship of His sufferings.

"I ask every Christian here today, who is willing henceforth to yield his life, his time, his all, unconditionally into the hands of the Master and to go forth seeking those who need help, to arise."

The speaker, though pale from emotion, calmly folded his arms and looked over the audience to see what the result might be.

He knew that the crisis in the life of his church had arrived, and should the King have the victory, or no?

For a moment there was not a stir. Then the preacher himself could scarcely believe what he saw.

Dr. Dale, still holding Rosa in his arms, slowly arose, love and determination being depicted upon the hitherto cold and dignified countenance. The effect was pronounced. Soon hundreds were upon their feet, while some one started the song:

"I gave My life for thee, My precious blood I shed That thou might'st ransomed be And quickened from the dead; I gave My life for thee: What hast thou done for Me?

"My Father's house of light, My glory-circled throne, I left for earthly night, For wanderings sad and lone; I left it all for thee: Hast thou left aught for Me?

"I suffered much for thee, More than thy tongue can tell, Of bitterest agony, To rescue thee from hell; I've borne it all for thee: What hast thou borne for Me?

"And I have brought to thee, Down from my home above, Salvation full and free, My pardon and My love; I bring rich gifts to thee: What hast thou brought to Me?"

At the conclusion of the song the pastor led in a consecration prayer, knowing that in many the bonds of worldliness were forever snapped asunder, and that henceforth the victorious, overcoming life would be theirs, making themselves heirs of the promise: "To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne."

After a few moments of silence, the quartette softly sang "The Home of the Soul," while a vast procession slowly marched before the casket, placing upon it gifts of silver, gold and bank notes all in one great heap.

At last all that was earthly of him whose simple life and final victory had proven so powerful a sermon, was tenderly carried out and laid to rest in a beautiful lot purchased by Dr. Dale, while the setting sun was painting the western sky with almost heavenly glory.

"God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty."



IX.

"A LITTLE CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM."

The day was over.

Esther and her father, possessed of a calm, holy joy deeper than ever before, were seated in his study, while with them were Dr. and Mrs. Dale, Rosa and Mrs. Gray.

Esther had been undergoing a struggle, for it would be hard to give Rosa up. She had planned to keep her as her own little sister, to educate her, to train her in things both temporal and spiritual, and to guard her till she should develop into a pure, strong, noble woman.

Now she felt that it must be otherwise, for evidently God had so determined. Knowing that His will always would be her deliberate choice, could she see the end from the beginning as He can, she was growing positively happy at this unexpected turn of events. It was a part of her religion not to be simply passively submissive to His will, but in it always to rejoice. The psalmist's declaration, "I delight to do Thy will, O my God," was the expression of her heart's desire.

Mrs. Dale, though with an eye upon the child, was quietly talking to Mrs. Gray of the privileges and duties befalling the Christian.

Dr. Dale was clasping Rosa closely to his breast, while now and then a tear dropped upon her curly head.

"Pastor," he said after a long interval of silence, "the battle has raged fiercely since Sunday morning, but thanks be to God, He has given me the strength with which to gain the victory.

"You know how selfish I have been, how taken up with the affairs of this world and the amassing of riches. For many years I have had no vital interest in other things. I have prided myself upon my uprightness and morality, considering that I was a worthy example for any to follow, and a decidedly successful man. Now the fallacy of my position I see, and realize that the best part of my life has been wasted—more than wasted!

"When you walked down the aisle with Rosa and grandpa, Satan made upon me a relentless onslaught. It seemed that there were two mighty and opposing forces within, each struggling for the supremacy. I did not yield entirely to the right till this afternoon, for I have gloried in my reputation of being influenced by no one.

"For years I have not been satisfied, knowing myself to be slipping farther and farther away from God. I have longed for the joy of my first love, but He could not take me back with my hands so tenaciously holding to the things of this world.

"Today the tempter told me that there would be no use in my surrendering, for I would not prove true, and anyhow that it was only a matter of excitement and not of firm conviction. I fully realize that I have no power in myself, and that the first moment I look away from Christ I shall fall. I am resting on the promise that He is able to keep me from falling and to present me faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy.

"Your message Sunday and your message today burned deeply into my soul, but it is this little girl whom God was pleased to use in the breaking of my stony, icy heart. I wish to take her as my own daughter, knowing that she will lead me still closer to the Lord she loves so well.

"Rosa," he asked tenderly, "are you willing to be my little girl instead of my Margaret whom God has taken to Himself?"

For her answer she slipped her arms about his neck and kissed him, while Mrs. Dale smiled through her tears upon the happy pair.

"My brother, may God bless you and keep you," fervently responded the pastor, "leading you from victory up into victory.

"You are not the only one to be filled with gratitude for having been brought under the influence of this child. I too view life differently, seeing more clearly than ever the duty, nay, privilege of personal soul-saving work for the Master. Rosa's quest has brought me face to face with the insignificance of this world, and the realities of the next. Her attitude is only what that of every true follower of God should be. Our citizenship is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. If we could only remember our position in Him, the surrendered life would be the natural outcome, and, like Rosa, our faces continually would be turned toward the beautiful land.

"This is only another verification of the fact that a little child shall lead them.

"Yes, it means a rich and new blessing to me!"

"And to me, too," softly sobbed Mrs. Gray, "fer it's all come through her, the sweet lamb, and I've been a-threat'nin' to lick her. She was that patient when my ankle was twisted, that I'll never fergit it, no never! I can see now how she'd shake of fear when she'd come up to me, then run to poor old father fer a bit of comfort. I didn't know it then, but do now, that she was 'most a-starvin' fer the kind of love she didn't git. How she must have missed her ma! Oh, I've been so awful mean! I don't see how God can fergive me, but I know He has. I never knew'd before that the Saviour is fer sech as me. Tom used to try to tell me, and I wouldn't let him. He wuz good, and I wuzn't. And dear old father! How happy he and Tom must be tonight, but it'll be dreadfully lonesome with them all gone. I wish I could have Rosa back ag'in, though I'm awful glad she's to have sech a good home. And I made sech a fuss about a-keepin' her till spring. If it hadn't been fer her, I don't know how I'd ever got along when I couldn't walk. But God has fergive me now, and I feel like another woman."

"I'll go back with you, Mis' Gray," faltered Rosa, "if you want me to."

"No, my child, you promised to stay with me," interrupted the doctor, "but you may visit Mrs. Gray every week, and I shall see that she never wants for anything again."



"Ain't He a wonderful Saviour?" said Mrs. Gray, brightening up. "I can't see how 'tis, but I love them all over there on Burton street now, and I used to be that ugly they're all afraid of me, I know. Seems like I can hardly wait till mornin', I'm that anxious to git back to tell them all about it. They're all so poor, and have sech heavy loads. They need Him bad to help them, but they don't know He's promised to. And Billy Bruce, the poor laddie, I want to tell him how sorry I am fer a-tryin' to throw that piece of coal at him. His ma's drunk most of the time, and so's his pa. He used to come to me fer somethin' to eat, and I wouldn't give him a thing, but jest scold him and tell him to git out of the way, fer I didn't feed beggars. He ain't never had no chance yet, and I'm jest a-goin' to see what I can do fer him. He's got a good heart, and once he told me I'd never lick Rosa if he wuz only a little bigger. He'll run when he see me a-comin', but I'll put some peppermints in my pocket, and mebbe they'd help catch him."

"Oh, Mrs. Gray," said Esther, "I am so glad that you are going to help Billy. I saw him the other day, and feel sure that you can bring him around all right. I shall come over often to assist you, and I know that many will find the same dear Friend in whom you are rejoicing tonight.

"How wonderfully has the Lord's hand been guiding since first I saw Rosa that cold December day; and the end is not yet!"

For several minutes the little company sat in silence, each one buried in thoughts too deep and sacred to find expression in words.

Presently Rosa lifted her head from the doctor's shoulder, her lustrous eyes becoming more luminous than ever, as she said:

"Oh, how glad I am that I have found the way to the beautiful land! Mother's there, and don't cough no more. Grandpa's there, and we're all going some day, 'cause Jesus paid the fare a long time ago!"



AFTERWORD.

One bitterly cold December day, while riding in a streetcar in a large city, a frail-looking little girl, bending beneath the weight of a huge package, entered the car, sitting directly in front of me. She was thinly, though neatly, clad. Her pale face was overshadowed by an expression of care far too old for her baby shoulders, while her eyes were large, dark, and pathetically wistful.

There was something irresistible about her whole appearance, impelling me to cross the aisle and sit down by her side.

She told me that her name was Rosa, and the conversation which followed, suggested the story, "ROSA'S QUEST."

I asked her if she knew anything about Jesus. To this she replied:

"Not much, ma'am, but it seems like I've heard just a little."

Of heaven and the way of salvation she was as ignorant as a child in the wilds of Africa. The sad expression of her face did not alter till I quoted John 3:16, then looking up with a smile she said:

"Ain't that pretty?"

For some time we talked, her hungry soul eagerly drinking in the old, old story, but to her so new.

Suddenly she left the car, and with a sense of deep depression, I saw her disappear amid a great, seething mass of humanity.

If she has not succumbed to the hardships of poverty, she probably is still toiling on in that proud "Christian" city, and has any one taught her more of Jesus than she knew that day?

Who will be responsible for these lost souls, constantly coming into contact with those who profess to know the Lord?

Why is it that so many Christians view life from an inverted standpoint, attaching apparently vastly more importance to the few brief years spent upon this earth, than to the countless cycles of eternity? Why not view it normally, making our one business that of serving that blessed Christ?

Surely the saddest word in a Christian's vocabulary is indifference. By-and-by many a one would doubtless gladly forfeit ten thousand years of heavenly bliss just to recall the wasted opportunities of this day.

It is an incomparable privilege to be a child of the King, and the only way in which one may prove his appreciation and loyalty is by the degree of consecration and quality of service rendered.

At the day of Christ's appearing there will be many an unrewarded Christian, saved eternally by the precious blood of God's sacrificial Lamb, but with no glittering starry crown to cast at those once-pierced and bleeding feet!

If the reading of this little story draws any nearer to the Lord, influencing them to become more diligent in their search for the lost, it shall accomplish that whereunto it is prayerfully sent.



MAN'S QUESTIONS; GOD'S ANSWERS

Am I accountable to God?

"Every one of us shall give account of himself to God" (Romans 14:12).

Has God seen all my ways?

"All things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do" (Hebrews 4:13).

Does He charge me with sin?

"The Scripture hath concluded all under sin" (Galatians 3:22). "All have sinned" (Romans 3:23).

Will He punish sin?

"The soul that sinneth, it shall die" (Ezekiel 18:4).

"For the wages of sin is death" (Romans 6:23).

Must I perish?

"God is not willing that any perish, but that all should come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9).

How can I escape?

"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved" (Acts 16:31).

Is He able to save me?

"He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him" (Hebrews 7:25).

Is He willing?

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" (1 Timothy 1:15).

Am I saved on believing?

"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life" (John 3:36).

Can I be saved now?

"Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation" (2 Corinthians 6:2).

As I am?

"Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out" (John 6:37).

Shall I not fall away?

"Him that is able to keep you from falling" (Jude 24).

If saved, how should I live?

"They which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them" (2 Corinthians 5:25).

What about death, and eternity?

"I go to prepare a place for you; that where I am, there ye may be also" (John 14:2, 3).

* * * * *

LIFE on the HIGHEST PLANE

By RUTH PAXSON

Now, all 3 volumes in one book. 820 pages,



The three volumes, "THE PERSON AND WORK OF CHRIST"; "THE RELATION BETWEEN CHRIST AND THE CHRISTIAN"; and "THE BELIEVER'S RESPONSE TO THE HOLY SPIRIT'S INWORKING" have now been combined, without revision and with fourteen colored charts included in one handy volume. These Bible studies were first given in embryo to pastors, evangelists, teachers, and other Christian leaders in conferences held in China. Later, printed in three volumes, they brought great blessing to many.

Other Books by Ruth Paxson

GOD'S PLAN OF REDEMPTION

It will aid one in personal Bible study or provide a practical outline for study groups. The questions are based on the teaching in each chapter of "Life on the Highest Plane." Can be used with or without the larger book. 48 pages, paper,

CALLED UNTO HOLINESS

Addresses given at Keswick's Conference in England. Sounds the clarion call to a more holy life. Here is victory for the defeated; deliverance for the enslaved; rest for the weary; peace for the discouraged; and joy for the sorrowing. 126 pages, paper,

RIVERS OF LIVING WATER

Studies Setting Forth the Believer's Possession of Christ, How Obtained—How Maintained. Multitudes of Christians are living a dry and thirsty existence when the Lord is waiting to give them His very best—rivers of living water! Perhaps few Christians have heard or read the Divine plan and purpose for the life of the believer presented so tersely, simply and clearly, and withal so lovingly and compellingly. 124 pages, paper,

CALEB, THE OVERCOMER

An inspiring account of this outstanding Bible character, a man out of the common run of people who lived a life brilliant in faith, obedience and courage. 80 pages, paper,

MOODY PRESS. 153 Institute Pl., Chicago 10, Ill.

* * * * *

BIBLE LESSONS IN BIBLE ORDER

(For Teachers of Children)

BY MRS. FRANK HAMILTON

Vol. I: THE PENTATEUCH

Vol. II: JOSHUA TO SOLOMON

Vol. III: THE KINGDOMS OF ISRAEL AND JUDAH: Concluding lessons from the Old Testament

Vol. IV: THE LIFE OF CHRIST— Matthew, Mark, Luke, John

Vol. V: THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES and Program Material

With the use of the blackboard and objects, the lessons in Bible order, beginning with Genesis, are taught in a way that the child can see them as well as hear them, and thus be able to retain them.

Each lesson begins with a Golden Text, which may be used as a memory verse, after which the story is told in a manner that will interest the young. At the close of each section, blackboard suggestions are given. There are maps and pages of blackboard drawings.

Teachers of the Beginners, Primary and Junior grades in Sunday Schools and Vacation Bible Schools, as well as parents in the home, who recognize the importance of following a consecutive course of Bible lessons, will find these books of great value. They are practical and true to the Word. They are full of suggestions that can be developed by the skilful teacher.

Mrs. Hamilton is an exceptionally successful teacher of children. She had charge of Primary and Junior Departments of large and successful Sunday Schools for many years. She has been Superintendent of Instruction of a Primary Sunday School Teachers' Union. Summer Bible Schools have also come within the author's experience.

Vols. I, II, III and V, 112 pages each; Vol. IV, 144 pages

Durable Art Stock Covers. Each, 60 Cents

THE MOODY PRESS 153 Institute Place Chicago. Ill., U.S.A.

* * * * *

The Moody COLPORTAGE Library

Uniform in size and style, attractive paper covers, 4-3/4 x 6-3/4 inches. 25c each.

1. All of Grace. C.H. Spurgeon 2. The Way to God. D.L. Moody 3. Pleasure & Profit In Bible Study. Moody 4. Life, Warfare and Victory. Whittle 5. Heaven. D.L. Moody 6. Prevailing Prayer. D.L. Moody 7. The Way of Life. Various authors 8. Secret Power. D.L. Moody 9. To the Work. D.L. Moody 10. According to Promise. C.H. Spurgeon 11. Bible Characters. D.L. Moody 13. "And Peter." J.W. Chapman 15. Light on Life's Duties, F.B. Meyer 18. The Good Shepherd. Life of Christ

20. Sovereign Grace. D.L. Moody 21. Select Sermons. D.L. Moody 23. Nobody Loves Me. Mrs. O.F. Walton

26. Sowing and Reaping. D.L. Moody 28. "Probable Sons." Story. Amy LeFeuvre 30. Good News. Robert Boyd

34. The Second Coming of Christ 40. The Power of a Surrendered Life, or Kadesh-Barnes. J.W. Chapman 42. Whiter Than Snow and Little Dot—Stories. Mrs. O.F. Walton 44. The Overcoming Life. D.L. Moody 48. The Prodigal. Various authors 49. The Spirit-Filled Life. John MacNeil 50. Jessica's First Prayer. Hesba Stretton 51. The Christ-Life for the Self-Life. Meyer 54. Absolute Surrender. Andrew Murray 58. What is Faith? Spurgeon, Moody, etc. 57. Christie's Old Organ—A story. Walton

60. Weighed and Wanting. D.L. Moody 61. The Crew of the Dolphin. Hesba Stretton 63. Meet for the Master's Use. F.B. Meyer 64. Our Bible. C. Leach and R.A. Torrey 65. Alone in London. Hesba Stretton 66. Moody's Anecdotes

70. The Power of Pentecost. Thomas Waugh 71. Men of the Bible. D.L. Moody 72. A Peep Behind the Scenes. O.F. Walton

76. Moody's Stories

81. Thoughts for Quiet Hour. D.L. Moody 82. The Shorter Life of D.L. Moody. Fitt

86. Moody's Latest Sermons

88. Calvary's Cross. Spurgeon, Whittle, etc. 89. How to Pray. R.A. Torrey 90. Little King Davie—Story. Nellie Hellis 91. Short Talks. D.L. Moody 93. Pilgrim's Progress. John Bunyan 96. Kept for the Master's use. Havergal 98. Back to Bethel. F.B. Meyer

102. Popular Amusements and the Christian Life. P.W. Sinks 104. Answers to Prayer. George Muller 105. The Way Home. D.L. Moody 109. Life of David Livingstone. Worcester 114. First Words to Young Christians. Boyd 115. Rosa's Quest—A Story. Anna P. Wright 116. Difficulties in the Bible. R.A. Torrey 119. Practical and Perplexing Questions Answered. R.A. Torrey

123. Salvation from Start to Finish. Gray

126. Burton Street Folks. Anna P. Wright 127. Bible Problems Explained. J.M. Gray 128. Papers on The Lord's Coming. "C.H.M." 129. Christian: Creed and Conduct. Evans 130. Intercessory Prayer. J.G.K. McClure

132. Ruth, the Moabitess. Henry Moorhouse 134. Forty-Eight Bernard Street. Clark 135. Deliverance from the Penalty and Power of Sin. O.R. Palmer 136. Mrs. Mary's Go-Tell. Graham Clark 137. Bird's-Eye Bible Study. A. Patterson 138. "I Cried, He Answered."

143. Moving Messages. J.C. Massee 144. The Christ We Know. A.C. Gaebelein 145. Five "Musts" of the Christian Life. F.B. Meyer 146. The New Life in Christ Jesus. Scofield 147. Problems in the Prayer Life. Buswell

151. The Faith that Wins. Roy T. Brumbaugh 152. God's Way of Holiness. H. Bonar 153. Souls Set Free. Mission field miracles 154. Thinking with God. Norman H. Camp 155. "Charge That to My Account." Ironside

158. Antidote to Christian Science. Gray 159. Is the Bible the Word of God? Scroggle 160. And God Spake These Words. W.H. Griffith Thomas 161. Methods of Bible Study. Thomas 162. Romance of a Doctor's Visits. Wilson 163. The Little Shepherd. Anna P. Wright 164. God's Picked Young Men. H.K. Pasma 165. The Cross of Christ. James H. Todd 168. By Ways Appointed. Briggs P. Dingman 167. Miracles in a Doctor's Life. Wilson 168. The Living Christ. Will H. Houghton

171. Full Assurance. H.A. Ironside

173. A Sure Remedy. Walter L. Wilson

175. Vivid Experiences in Korea. Chisholm 176. The "True" Mystery Solved. Wright 177. The Resurrection of the Human Body. Norman H. Camp 178. On Silver Creek Knob. Story. Cannon

180. Remarkable New Stories. W.L. Wilson 181. Rivers of Living Water. Ruth Paxson 182. "Called Unto Holiness." Ruth Paxson 183. The Soul-Winner's Fire. John R. Rice 185. Aunt Hattie's Bible Stories—Genesis. H.I. Fisher

187. In His Hands—Story. Harriett Heine 188. Great Words of the Gospel. Ironside 189. So Great Salvation. J.F. Strombeck

Ask for descriptive folder.

MOODY PRESS 153 Institute Place (Dept. MCL) Chicago 10

* * * * *

THE EVANGEL BOOKLETS

A series of brief, timely messages of supreme importance, and gospel stories, by evangelical preachers and teachers, Christian workers and laymen. 32-page booklets, self-cover.

1. God Is Love. An appeal to the unsaved. D.L. Moody.

2. God Reaching Down. Messages to the unconverted. C.H. Spurgeon.

4. Jack Winsted's Choice. A Gospel story. Lillian E. Andrews.

6. Ruined, Redeemed, Regenerated. C.H. Mackintosh.

7. By the Old Mill. Story. Katherine Elise Chapman.

8. The Day After Thanksgiving. Story. Mrs. S.R. Graham Clark.

9. True Stories About God's Free Gift. Alexander Marshall.

10. Lois Dudley Finds Peace. Story. Anna Potter Wright.

12. The Penitent Thief, and Naaman the Syrian. D.L. Moody.

13. Adder's Eggs and Spider's Webs. H.A. Ironside.

14. Samuel Morris. The true story of a Spirit-filled African.

16. Saved and Safe. Salvation, Assurance and Security. Fred J. Meldau.

17. "In the Beginning God—" and other Talks. Mark A. Matthews.

18. Christian Science: Pedigree, Principles, Posterity. Percy W. Stephens.

19. Modern Education at the Cross-Roads. M.H. Duncan.

20. Is the Bible True? Nashville address. Wm. Jennings Bryan.

21. How to Read the Word of God Effectively. A.T. Pierson.

22. The Most Important Thing in My Life. The testimony of Dr. Howard A. Kelly, world-famous surgeon. William S. Dutton.

23. Where Are the Dead? H.C. Marshall.

25. Mary Antipas. Story. Howard W. Pope.

26. Four Old Pals. Story. Frederick Burnham.

28. Dios es Amor (God Is Love). Spanish edition of No. 1.

29. Forethought in Creation. W. Bell Dawson.

30. Bryan's Last Word on Evolution. William Jennings Bryan.

33. The Double Cure. A Gospel appeal. Melvin E. Trotter.

35. Old Truths for Young Lives. For children.

37. How to Have a Happy Home. Harold Francis Branch.

38. The Peril of Unbelief and the Danger of Doubt. D.L. Moody.

39. Moody the Evangelist. Joseph B. Bowles.

40. The Only Begotten Son. H.A. Ironside.

42. Tom Bennett's Transformation. Story. Howard W. Pope.

43. Will a God of Love Punish Any of His Creatures Forever? Alexander Marshall.

45. Intercession for Revival. Helen C. Alexander Dixon.

46. With Everlasting Love. Story. Elzoe Prindle Stead.

47. How the Word Works. Fred J. Meldau.

48. Why I Believe the Bible. M.H. Duncan.

49. Caught. Story. C.S. Knight.

50. The Fruit of the Spirit Is Joy. John R. Riebe.

51. A Life Decision in the Sand Hills. Story. Ronald R. Kratz.

52. Love's Danger Signal. Doctrine of future retribution. John G. Reid.

53. Pictures That Talk, Series One. E.J. Pace.

54. Pictures That Talk, Series Two. E.J. Pace.

56. My One Question Answered: Was Jesus Christ a Great Teacher Only? R.D. Sheldon.

57. Modern Miracles of Grace. John Wilmot Mahood.

58. How to Study the Bible. A helpful outline. B.B. Sutcliffe.

59. What is Your Answer? Oswald J. Smith.

60. Deus E Amor (God Is Love) Portuguese edition of No. 1.

61. The True and False in Christian Work and Worship. M.H. Duncan.

62. What Must I Do to be Saved? George E. Guille.

63. The Man in the Well. Other religious faiths. Oswald J. Smith.

64. Why All "Good People" Will Be Lost. J.E. Conant.

66. The Compromise Road. Story. Paul Hutchens.

67. An Hundredfold. Stewartship. David McConoughy.

68. Death or Life, Which? A clear presentation. Oswald J. Smith.

69. Bernard Enters the Race. Story. Anna Potter Wright.

70. The Trial of Jesus. Harold F. Branch.

71. The Christian's Citizenship. M.H. Duncan.

72. Atheism and the Bible. A startling revelation. Oswald J. Smith.

73. Galatians. God's answer to legalism. B.B. Sutcliffe.

74. O Sangue. (The Blood) Portuguese. D.L. Moody.

75. Who is a Christian? Timely questions answered. Oswald J. Smith.

76. Broken Life-Line. Story. Paul Hutchens.

77. Eagle Christians. Harry McCormick Lintz.

78. Elisha Rice. Man of God—Mountaineer. Helen R. Blankenship.

79. The Master Touch. Rebuilt Lives. William Seath.

80. The Bully of Stony Lonesome. Story. Charles S. Knight.

81. The Stolen Pearl. Story. Paul Hutchens.

Each, 10c; 12 copies (any assortment), $1.00; 100, $7.00

Attractive rates on large quantities.

MOODY PRESS 153 INSTITUTE PLACE Chicago 10, Ill., U.S.A.

* * * * *

CHRISTIAN FICTION

SUN IN THE STREET—By John Leonard Lovdahl



A gripping novel of Revolutionary France. Rugged, God-fearing Georges Gerot; frugal, hardworking Mama Gerot; Jacques, the prodigal elder brother who decides to test his own theories of life; Franois, the younger son who becomes a missionary—these are the central characters in this fascinating account of spiritual conflict and romance. 264 pages; cloth cover

NOT MY WILL—By Francena H. Arnold

Strong in plot and characters, this easy-to-read novel portrays events in the life of headstrong Eleanor Stewart who discovers that fortune plays strange tricks on those who try to manage their lives to please themselves. She seeks peace in vain until she surrenders her life completely to Christ. 334 pages; cloth cover

THE YEAR OF THE TIGER—By John Bechtel

This exciting story of China portrays vividly the experiences of the Tsui family, and what the ill-omened Year of the Tiger, occurring every twelfth year, meant to them. Written by a missionary who knows Chinese life. Fascinating reading. 224 pages; cloth cover

COLORING BOOKS FOR CHILDREN

By Dorothy Grunbock Johnston and Emmy Lou Osborne Murphy

TOGNIA: School Boy of India



Previous books in this series have been eagerly received by children and parents, for this team knows what appeals to the very youngest. This book is the heart-warming story of a little Indian boy who comes to know the Lord Jesus. The pre-schooler will enjoy painting or coloring the adventures of Tognia. 32 pp; 11 x 14-1/2 inches

Yakalo: Indian Boy of Brazil

Youngsters can run the gamut of their crayons in coloring brilliant scenes of Brazil and primitive life of Yakalo. A wonderful way to teach missions. Shows the Indians' ignorance of God contrasted with the missionary's good news. Each page is a true picture of Indian life. 32 pages; 11 x 14-1/2 inches

CHING LIN: China Boat Girl

This coloring book takes the youngsters to China and introduces them to Ching Lin, a little Chinese girl, who lives on a river boat. How Ching Lin responds to the gospel will win their hearts. Splendid for vacation Bible school, child evangelism, and Sunday school classes. 32 pages; 11 x 14-1/2 inches

FROM YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE OR DIRECT

MOODY PRESS, 153 Institute Pl., Chicago 10, Ill.

* * * * *

Transcriber's note: Minor typographical errors corrected.

THE END