"No, Fanny, it was a poor excuse; I see that I must not look at
others, but at what God requires of _me_."
Fanny. "How common is the excuse, so many people profess to think they
can do without religion, because so many who call themselves Christian
are inconsistent. Dear girls, I pray that if you are ever Christians,
you may be consistent, sincere ones. Who can estimate the good, or the
evil, you may do by your example. If you love the Savior more than all
else beside, you will find his yoke easy and his burden light, and for
his sake it will be pleasant to do what would naturally be unpleasant.
Remember this, Sophy, and I hope you will soon all know the blessedness
of being Christians. It is our highest duty and our highest happiness.
Do, dear girls, resolve, each of you, to seek the Lord now."
Just then, their pastor came; he spoke kindly to each of the little
group, before entering the house.
"It is nearly tea-time," said Clara, "let us go and offer our assistance
to Mrs. Mills; as we are the youngest here, perhaps she would like to
have us carry around the plates and tea. We will try to not forget what
you have told us, Fanny."
"Pray for me, Fanny," said Sophia softly, as she passed her, and kissed
her.
"And for me," said Annie.
"And for us, too," continued Clara, Emily and Alice, as they stepped
back for a moment.
Tea was soon over, the missionary hymn, "From Greenland's icy
mountains," was sung, and prayer offered by the pastor, and then the
pleasant interview was ended.
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