and his family were still absent, Hiram had made very
sensible progress in mastering the mysteries of the Episcopal form of
worship, and became fully versed in certain doctrinal points, embracing
all questions of what constitutes a 'church' and a proper 'succession.'
His investigations were carried on under the direction of the Rev. Mr.
Strang, a man of feeble mind (Mr. Myrtle was careful to have no one near
him unless the contrast was to his advantage), but a worthy and
conscientious person, who believed he was doing Heaven service in
bringing Hiram into the fold of the true church. Hiram was again in his
element as an object of religious interest. Before the rector had
returned, he became very impatient to see him. It was a long while since
he had been at communion, and he began to fear his hold on heaven would
be weakened by so long an absence from that sacrament. Besides, he felt
quite prepared and ready to be confirmed.

The Myrtles returned at last. In due time, Mrs. Bennett talked the whole
matter over with Mrs. Myrtle. Hiram was represented as 'a very rich
young merchant, destined to be a leading man in the city--of an ancient
and honorable New England family--very desirable in the church--a
cousin'--[here several sentences were uttered in a whisper, accompanied
by nods and signs significant, which I shall never be able to
translate]--'must secure him--ripe for it now.'

I think I forgot to say that Mrs. Myrtle and Mrs. Bennett were in the
same 'set' as young ladies, and were very intimate.

The nest day Mrs. Bennett opened the subject to Mr. Myrtle, his wife
having duly prepared him. The object was to introduce Hiram into the
church in the most effective manner. This could only be done through the
instrumentality of the reverend gentleman himself. Everything went
smoothly. Mr. Myrtle was not insensible to the value of infusing new and
fresh elements into his congregation.

'Of course,' he observed, 'this wealthy young man will take an entire
pew.' (The annual auction of rented pews was soon to come off, and Mr.
Myrtle liked marvellously to see strong competition. It spoke well for
the church.)

'He will _purchase_ a pew, if a desirable one can be had,' answered Mrs.
Bennett.

'Oh, that is well. How fortunate! The Winslows are going to Europe to
reside, and I think will sell theirs. One of the best in the church.
Pray ask Mr. Bennett to look after it.'

'Thank you. How very considerate, how very thoughtf