e she released it.

As Elsie ceased speaking, Mr. Grier slipped quietly away, and continued
his walk. From what he had just seen and heard, he felt fully convinced
that Elsie was not the wicked, disobedient child Enna had represented
her to be; yet he knew that Enna was not alone in her opinion, since it
was very evident that Elsie was in disgrace with the whole family--her
father especially--and that she was very unhappy. He felt his heart drawn
out in sympathy for the child, and longed to be able to assist her in
regaining her father's favor, yet he knew not how to do it, for how was
he to learn the facts in the case without seeming to pry into the family
secrets of his kind entertainers? But there was one comfort he could do
for her--what she had so earnestly asked of Dinah--and he would. As he
came to this resolution he turned about and began to retrace his steps
toward the house. To his surprise and pleasure, upon turning around a
thicket, he came suddenly upon Elsie herself, seated upon a bench under
a tree, bending over her little Bible, which lay open on her lap, and
upon which her quiet tears were dropping, one by one.

She did not seem aware of his presence, and he stood a moment gazing
compassionately upon her, ere he spoke.

"My dear little girl, what is the matter?" he asked in a gentle tone,
full of sympathy and kindness, seating himself by her side.

Elsie started, and raising her head, hastily brushed away her tears.

"Good evening, sir," she said, blushing painfully, "I did not know you
were here."

"You must excuse my seeming intrusion," replied the old gentleman, taking
her hand in his. "I came upon you unawares, not knowing you were here;
but now that we have met, will you not tell me the cause of your grief?
Perhaps I may be able to assist you."

"No, sir," she said, "you could not do anything for me; but I thank you
very much for your kindness."

"I think," said he, after a moment's pause, "that I know something of
your trouble; you have offended your father; is it not so, my dear?"

Elsie answered only by her tears, and he went on.

Laying his hand upon the Bible, "Submission to parents, my dear child,"
he said, "you know is enjoined in this blessed book; children are here
commanded to honor and obey their father and mother; it is _God's_
command, and if you love his holy word, you will obey its precepts.
Surely your father will forgive, and receive you into favor, if you show
yourself