ted in its character, expressed his gratification to his younger
brother, at its close, the latter should, perhaps, have confessed how
much of its merits were owing to his influence; for, after his interview
with the old clergyman, Mr. Corlis, touched to the quick by new
convictions of duty, had re-written a large portion of the sermon
prepared during the week, and poured into it something of the vital
spirit of love and truth which had been awakened within him.

Father Brighthopes read the closing hymn in clear, musical, feeling
tones of voice, while the congregation listened with unaccustomed
attention and pleasure. When the services were over, a great many sought
to be introduced to him, and Deacon Dustan insisted that he should go
home with him and dine. But there was a Sunday-school between morning
and afternoon services, and he expressed a desire to remain and witness
the teachers' labors.

"Perhaps," said he, smiling, "with my experience, I can throw out some
useful hints. However, as I think a breath of air will do me good," he
added, turning to Mr. Corlis who had asked him to walk over to the
parsonage, "I accept your kind invitation. I can return in the course of
half an hour, and still have time to utter a great deal more wisdom than
I shall be capable of, I fear."

Mr. Corlis had hardly expected this, and, it may be, he was not very
pleasantly surprised. It had been impossible for him to foster any
resentment from over-hearing the old man's remarks, two days before,
touching the duties of clergymen; yet he could not feel altogether
comfortable in his presence.

Even this sensation of uncongeniality could not last long. Father
Brighthopes was so frank, so humble, so full of love and kindly
enthusiasm, that in ten minutes his conversation had swept away the
barriers between them. Mr. Corlis really began to like him, and feel
that his counsel and support might be of great assistance to him in his
labors.

After partaking sparingly of a tempting collation, to which he was
welcomed by the bright eyes and rosy lips of Mrs. Corlis, the old man
proposed to return to the Sabbath-school; and the young preacher
volunteered to be his companion.

The appearance of Father Brighthopes in the school-room was a memorable
event. The teachers soon closed up the business of their classes, to
listen to what he had to say. All was attention, as he arose, venerable,
yet simple and smiling, to address the school.

Hitherto