espised, I still praise God; you wished that I might always be
fortunate, but I cannot be unfortunate, because nothing befalls me but
according to the will of God, and I believe that His will is always
good, in whatever He does or permits to be done. You wished me always
happy, but I cannot be unhappy, because my will is always resigned to
the will of God."

The divine, astonished at the man's answers, asked him whence he came.

"I came from God," he replied. "Where did you find Him?" "Where I left
the world." "Where did you leave God?" "With the pure in heart." "What
are you?" "I am a king." "Where is your kingdom?" "It is within my
bosom. I have learned to rule my appetites and passions, and that is
better than to rule any kingdom in the world."

"How were you brought into this happy condition?"

"By secret prayer, spiritual meditation and union with God; nothing
below God could satisfy my desires; I have found Him, and in Him I have
found Peace and Rest."

--_Old Magazine._

1563

A PRAYER "FOR ABSENT RELATIVES AND FRIENDS."

"Our Father, in Thy mercy
Hear our anxious prayer:
Keep our loved ones now far absent
'Neath Thy care."

1564

NO ROOF ON THE HOUSE.

A laborer went to work for a wealthy farmer. It was regarded as
something of a favor to be employed by him, as he was a prompt and
liberal paymaster, and was look'd upon by his neighbors as a very
superior farmer. The man remained with him only a few days.

"I'm told you've left farmer P," said a neighbor.

"Yes, I have," was the reply.

"Was the work too hard for you?"

"There was nothing to complain of on that score."

"What then? Were the wages too low?"

"No."

"Why did you leave?"

"There was no roof on the house!" And he went on his way, leaving the
questioner to ponder on the strange answer he had given.

The man's meaning may be found in the saying of an old writer, who
affirms that a dwelling in which prayer is not offered up to God daily,
is like a house without a roof, in which there cannot be either peace,
safety, or comfort.

--_Old Magazine._

1565

Prayer in the morning is the key that opens to us the treasures of God's
mercies and blessings; in the evening it is the key that shuts us up
under his protection and safeguard.

1566

When thou prayest, rather let thy heart be without wo