r feed him, if he
thirst give him drink.' '_I_ say unto you,' Christ says, '_Love_ your
enemies.' He does not say don't hate them, he means _Love_ them. Do you
think you have more to forgive John than Jesus had to forgive those who
hung him on the cross?"

"It seems to me, Miss Schomberg, so different that example is far above
me. I cannot be like Him you know."

"Yet Joe there have been instances of persons who have followed his
example in their way and degree, and who have been taught by Him, and
helped by Him to forgive their fellow-creatures."

"But it is not in human nature to do it, I know, at least is not in
mine."

"But try and settle it in your mind, Joe, that John did not mean to
injure you, that had he had the least idea that you would fall he would
never have tempted you to climb. If you look upon it as accidental on
your part, and thoughtlessness on his, it will feel easier to forgive
him perhaps, and I am sure you may. You are quite wrong in supposing
that John does not think of it. He told Edith only yesterday that he
never could forgive himself for tempting you to climb, and that he did
not wonder at your cold and distant way to him. Poor fellow! it would
make him much happier if you would treat him as though you forgave him,
which you cannot do unless you _from your heart_ forgive him."

CHAPTER TWELFTH.

THE CHRISTMAS TREE.

The conversation last recorded, between Emilie and Joe, took place a few
days before Christmas. Every one noticed that Joe was more silent and
thoughtful than usual, but he was not so morose; he received the little
attentions of his friend more gratefully, and was especially fond of
having Emilie talk to him, sing to him, or read to him. Emilie and her
aunt were spending a few days at the Parkers' house, and it seemed to
add very much to Joe's comfort. This Emilie was like a spirit of peace
pervading the whole family. She was so sure to win Edith to obey her
mamma, to stop John if he went a little too far in his jokes with his
sister, to do sundry little services for Mrs. Parker, and to make
herself such an agreeable companion to Emma, and Caroline, that they all
agreed they wished that they had her always with them. Edith confessed
to Emilie one day that she thought Emma and Caroline wonderfully
improved, and as to her mamma, how very seldom she was cross now.

"We are very apt to think other persons in fault when we ourselves are
cross and irritable, this may ha