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+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 12042 ***
+
+THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER
+
+BY ISABEL C. BYRUM
+
+GOSPEL TRUMPET COMPANY
+
+First Printing 1911
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+This book has a purpose: it is sent forth as precious seed, with the
+prayer that it will fall into "good soil" in many hearts and bring forth
+an hundredfold.
+
+All parents with natural affection desire the best things for their
+children. Such fathers and mothers have high hopes that from their home
+will go forth noble men and women--yes, even heroes. Many fail to
+realize the attainment of this ideal in their children, because of a
+lack of the knowledge necessary to bring about the desired development
+in the child-life.
+
+The following pages were written with the fervent hope that they would,
+at least in some measure, be a help in developing the young lives
+entrusted to your care. If your harvest-time is past; if your children
+have grown up and have left the old home, you may be able to help some
+one who still has little ones to train.
+
+One object in relating actual experiences was that the reader might be
+guided in the application of those principles of child-training which,
+if merely stated in the abstract, might be hard to understand and
+difficult of application. The principles herein stated are not mere
+theories, but they have the commendation of having stood the test of
+use. Two other objects of this simple story of home life are that the
+thoughtful mother may get a view of the effects of certain extreme
+environments on the child-life and, by observing the substantial results
+accomplished by a praying mother, she may discover the secret of
+success.
+
+The incidents of this little home story are all true, even to minute
+details, as far as memory serves one of the actors in this drama of home
+life after the lapse of many years; but as most of the principal
+characters are still living, the correct names have, for the most part,
+been withheld. Should one of your children ask, "Mama, who was Bessie
+Worthington?" you can truthfully answer, "She was a little girl who
+lived in Michigan; and she and her papa and mama are still living."
+
+If, by reading this little book, any mother shall see wherein she can
+improve upon her past teaching, and thus be able to do more for the
+spiritual and moral well-being of her children, the writer will feel
+amply rewarded. May the blessing of God attend it as it goes forth.
+
+  Yours in Him,
+    Isabel C. Byrum.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+  CHAPTER I.
+  Two Scenes
+
+  CHAPTER II.
+  A Praying Mother
+
+  CHAPTER III.
+  Early Training
+
+  CHAPTER IV.
+  God's Care
+
+  CHAPTER V.
+  Consecration
+
+  CHAPTER VI.
+  Conscience
+
+  CHAPTER VII.
+  A Downward Step
+
+  CHAPTER VIII.
+  A Wise Decision
+
+  CHAPTER IX.
+  Self-Control
+
+  CHAPTER X.
+  Parental Control
+
+  CHAPTER XI.
+  Christian Experience
+
+  CHAPTER XII.
+  The Beautiful Secret
+
+  CHAPTER XIII.
+  Blessing and Trial
+
+  CHAPTER XIV.
+  The Surprise Party
+
+  CHAPTER XV.
+  Leroy's Healing
+
+  CHAPTER XVI.
+  Explaining the Divine Life
+
+  CHAPTER XVII.
+  Temptations
+
+  CHAPTER XVIII.
+  Answers to Prayer
+
+  CHAPTER XIX.
+  Lost in the Woods
+
+  CHAPTER XX.
+  Novel-Reading
+
+  CHAPTER XXI.
+  Glad Tidings
+
+  CHAPTER XXII.
+  The Meetings
+
+  CHAPTER XXIII.
+  Bessie Sees Her Duty
+
+  CHAPTER XXIV.
+  Reverie
+
+  CHAPTER XXV.
+  A Plea to Mothers
+
+  CHAPTER XXVI.
+  Parental Duty
+
+  CHAPTER XXVII.
+  Useful Hints
+
+
+
+
+THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+TWO SCENES.
+
+How delightful to step into the home where God is counselor of both
+parent and child! How blessed the companionship in such a home! There
+God counsels in sweet, tender tones. He teaches his will and gives the
+needed wisdom. God is man's truest and best teacher. James says, "If any
+of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally
+... and it shall be given him." Be the home ever so beautiful, if it is
+not a house of prayer, it is not a place of true happiness. Parents
+should often commune with the Lord; especially the mother, with her many
+cares and perplexities, if she would do justice to the little ones
+entrusted to her care.
+
+A beautiful picture now comes to my mind--a picture of an ideal mother
+of olden time. She dwelt in Ramah of Palestine. Her lonely home nestled
+among the lonely hills. She loved to commune with the Lord, for deep in
+her bosom she carried a sorrow that only he could help her to bear. Her
+home lacked that sweet sunlight which innocent childhood brings. She
+longed and prayed for a little life to guide and direct in the ways of
+the Lord.
+
+Once every year she went with her husband to Shiloh, where sacrifices
+were offered, and there publicly worshiped the Lord. When at the house
+of the Lord one day, she prayed long and earnestly that God would grant
+the desire of her heart. "O Lord of hosts," she prayed, "if thou wilt
+indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and
+not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man
+child, then I will give him unto the Lord all the days of his life, and
+there shall no razor come upon his head."
+
+A scene like this must have been rare even to the priest of God; for he
+mistook this sad woman for one drunken with wine. She begged him not to
+look upon her as such. When the man of God saw by her modest, earnest
+words that she was not drunken as he had supposed, he changed his
+reproof into a blessing. "Go in peace," he said, "and the God of Israel
+grant thy petition that thou hast asked of him." With perfect confidence
+that God had heard and answered prayer, the woman arose and returned
+with her husband to their home in Ramah.
+
+The next year she did not go up to Shiloh; for God had granted her
+petition and had given her a little son. Her husband was willing for her
+to remain at home, but he cautioned her not to forget her promise to the
+Lord. He feared, perhaps, that the mother might become so attached to
+her child that she would be unwilling to part with him as she had
+promised. His warning was unnecessary.
+
+As soon as Samuel (for this is what the mother named her son) was old
+enough to be useful, she took him to the house of God and presented him
+to the Lord. It must have sounded to the aged priest (who soon would
+have to cease his work upon earth) like a voice from heaven, when the
+happy mother, pointing to her child, said: "For this child I prayed; and
+the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him: therefore also
+I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to
+the Lord."
+
+Again the mother prays; this time not in sorrow, but from a heart filled
+with thanksgiving. She feels no regret because of her vow. Her child
+became a great blessing to many people, and the Lord gave her other sons
+and daughters to cheer her heart.
+
+By reading the story we find that "the child Samuel grew and was in
+favor both with the Lord and also with men." Why was this? In answer to
+his devoted mother's prayer, the Holy Spirit hovered over that child,
+shielding him from the cruel darts and arrows of the enemy. He had been
+taught the ways of the Lord from his cradle and his life was fully
+consecrated to God.
+
+A different scene comes before me now--a scene that brings a shudder.
+Upon a ship sailing along the shores of France were a man and his wife
+on their way to join a band of villainous people in India. Being on a
+secret mission, they traveled slowly and carefully. It was a tedious and
+dangerous journey. One stormy day, on the Bay of Biscay, a child was
+born to them.
+
+No loving welcome from the lips of a prayerful parent awaited this poor
+little innocent child; instead, curses were his portion, and, by the
+order of his mother, he was cast aside in a pile of rubbish to die. By
+chance the father passed that way and, finding his child's poor little
+perishing form, picked it up, took it to his wife, and commanded her to
+see that it was cared for.
+
+As the child grew and developed in this atmosphere of sin and
+degradation, is it strange that he partook of his parents' nature and
+developed even worse habits than they? Unless the proper home influence
+is thrown around a child, he can not help suffering from the inherited
+sins of his parents.
+
+When this child became a man, he knew nothing of virtue and honesty.
+His life was enveloped in a shroud of darkest crimes. Leaving India, he
+went to Europe and from there sailed to America. Each year found him
+better acquainted with court proceedings and prison walls. It was a
+common thing for him to break into a man's house and steal every
+valuable that he could find.
+
+I recently met this man and heard from his own lips the dark story of
+his life. As he was relating an account of a desperate burglary, I asked
+him what he would have done if the man of the house had awakened.
+"Please do not ask me." he answered. "I was always armed, and a man's
+life was no more to me than a dog's. There are scenes that I can not, I
+dare not, recall, for I am a changed man now."
+
+Thank God, he is a changed man. He had not been too vile for God to
+find. Jesus had cleansed his heart from all desire to do evil. Having
+confessed his crimes and given himself up to be punished, he had been
+sent to prison, but because of good behavior had been soon pardoned. He
+is now spending his life among the lower class, whom he understands so
+well and pities so much, trying to show them the way of salvation.
+
+Note the atmosphere that surrounded the cradle of each of the babes of
+whom we have been speaking. In the first home we find prayer, love,
+hope, and tenderness; in the last, sin, hatred, crime, and villainy. Oh
+that mothers everywhere would take warning! If only these two pictures
+could be framed and hung in the recesses of every mother's heart where
+they might teach their silent lesson! If only mothers might see how
+powerful for good or evil is their influence; how the affections and the
+mental powers may be moulded by prayer and maternal love, and how the
+groundwork for the future of the child may be laid in its early
+training!
+
+A sensible mother has a charm and wields an influence that takes a fast
+hold on the hearts of those who are dear to her. The kindly sympathy of
+youth, the deep affection of manhood, can be traced to influences that
+began at mother's knee.
+
+What true, prayerful mother does not feel as her child closely nestles
+to her bosom that she is invested with a divine, mysterious power, an
+influence which she can not understand? Then it is that she sees her
+imperfections and longs for wisdom to know how to guide her child. God
+alone can supply that understanding. She is her child's book of wisdom,
+love, and, beauty, but she should be of God's writing.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+A PRAYING MOTHER.
+
+Still another mother comes before my mind--an earnest, zealous, pious
+mother, who fashioned her life and example continually by God's Word and
+endeavored daily to teach her children the deep truths of salvation in
+language so simple that they could understand, to seek out the causes of
+their failures and discouragements, and to give them timely advice and
+instruction.
+
+As I trace a few of her experiences, which are all true incidents, I
+trust they may sink into some perplexed mother's heart and enable her to
+wield the instruments of love and prayer about her darlings and to be
+more able to guide their tender hearts in the right course.
+
+Mrs. Worthington lived in the great city of Chicago, in a small cottage
+on Portland Avenue near Thirty-first Street. Nothing about the dwelling
+was elaborate; everything was simple, but very neat. Pretty vines
+trailed gracefully over the porch and windows, and a few flower beds
+filled up the dull nooks and corners. In front of the house was a grassy
+lawn enclosed by a picket fence. Here the children could play apart from
+the rough waifs that thronged the street. Within the cottage the same
+quiet taste was in evidence.
+
+Every day in her cozy sitting-room Mrs. Worthington talked with her
+little girls, Bessie and Louise. In times of trouble and perplexity she
+bowed with them in prayer. How much the children enjoyed their mother's
+comradeship and counsel! The mother realized the importance of these
+early impressions made on the child's mind. She had promised God to do
+all in her power to train her children for heaven. She had commenced
+early, even from the time she had first looked into the depths of their
+innocent eyes.
+
+She had taught them that when any trouble arose between them, they were
+to kneel in prayer and ask God to help the one who had done wrong. Once
+she heard Bessie say, "Louise, I have prayed for you three times, and I
+believe I shall have to pray for you again." Louise was not a bad child;
+she had as sweet and happy a disposition as Bessie; but, as with all
+small children, little difficulties arose between them.
+
+Wishing to know what her two little girls would do on such an occasion,
+she watched them. Bessie quietly took her little sister's hand, lead her
+aside, and knelt with her in prayer. Then with all earnestness she
+prayed, "O Lord, help Louise to to be good, for Jesus' sake. Amen." The
+prayer, though short, was effectual; for both went back to their play
+with happy faces, and they had no more trouble that day.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+EARLY TRAINING.
+
+As the daily teaching continued, Mrs. Worthington taught her children
+many helpful lessons. She told them of the great necessity of a Savior
+and of his mission to humanity. She taught them how God looked upon
+disobedience, and always illustrated her talks with interesting Bible
+stories and their every-day experiences. In this way she taught them not
+only the evil effects of wrong-doing but also the sure reward of
+right-doing.
+
+One summer, while the family was spending their vacation in Michigan at
+the pretty country home of an aunt, something happened that helped the
+children to apprehend their mother's meaning. This incident, although in
+some measure painful to Mrs. Worthington, impressed the lesson upon
+their young minds almost better than anything else could have.
+
+The house was situated upon a hill that sloped gradually down to the
+shore of a lake. In many ways this lake was very attractive, especially
+to the two little girls, who were then at the ages of two and four
+years. Mrs. Worthington carefully warned the children of the danger of
+playing near the lake shore; but, not realizing the greatness of their
+temptation, she trusted them too far. Time after time they made their
+way down to the water's edge. Something must be done; but what?
+
+One morning Mr. Worthington noticed his little daughters standing in
+front of the house. Although he could not hear their words, he clearly
+perceived that they were talking about a trip to the forbidden lake.
+They hesitated some time, but at last walked slowly down the hillside to
+the lake. Again they hesitated. Finally descending the steps of the
+boat-house, they stepped into the sparkling water. How dainty the
+ripples about their feet, and how clear the water!
+
+"Surely there can be no harm or danger," thought Bessie; but she
+remembered the oft-repeated warnings of her parents and aunt. The
+shells lost their beauty when she remembered hearing her father say that
+bears sometimes travel up and down the shores. What if a bear should
+some that morning? She gave a quick, searching glance among the trees,
+but, seeing nothing, she tried to forget about bears. She might have
+been able to forget about them, but she could not forget that she was
+disobedient. Her conscience would not let her; the more she tried to
+forget, the louder it talked. She was just about to take her little
+sister back to the house, when she heard a rustling among the branches
+of a tall tree directly above the path over which she must pass. The
+next moment she thought she heard a low growl. "O Louise," she cried, "I
+do believe that is the bear papa told us about." The tree then began to
+sway from side to side and they heard another growl, louder than the
+first. Seizing her little sister's hand, Bessie hastened to help her out
+of the water. By this time both were thoroughly frightened; for while
+visiting one of the parks in Chicago once, they had seen a bear hug his
+keeper until he could not stand. Bessie remembered the incident and
+tried to help Louise to hurry; but when the tree shook again, this time
+just above her, she screamed wildly and ran a few steps alone. When she
+got past the danger-point her reason returned, and, looking back, she
+saw her sister's great danger, as she stood just beneath the fatal tree.
+Rushing back, she almost carried Louise (while the growling continued),
+and they were soon up the hill. In the house they told of their strange
+experience, the substance of the story being, "The bear; The bear!"
+
+Mr. Worthington soon joined the excited circle and secretly explained to
+his wife that he had been the supposed bear and that he had taken this
+course to teach the children a lesson. His plan was successful, for
+after that the children did not care to go to the lake alone.
+
+Mrs. Worthington, however, was very sad because her children had been
+deceived. Unlike her husband, who was not a Christian, she believed in
+keeping the confidence of her children and in praying with them when
+they were disobedient. She decided to be more prompt and watchful in the
+future and to shield them from temptation as much as possible.
+
+She improved the opportunity for some wholesome instruction. From the
+stories of Jonah and King Saul she brought forth some excellent lessons
+on disobedience. She told the children that, although they might think
+when tempted to disobey that nobody saw them, yet there was one whose
+eye was ever beholding their deeds, whether good or bad. Then she knelt
+in prayer with her children, praying with a full heart to that God who
+is everywhere present and from whom all our strength must come, that he
+would teach her how to guide the precious souls entrusted to her care.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+GOD'S CARE.
+
+Considering this mother's deep piety, do you think it strange that she
+saw God's hand in everything that befell her, and ascribed praise to him
+for it all?
+
+After the return of the family to their home in Chicago the father
+became very ill. His sickness was so severe and so long continued that
+poverty began to threaten them. Mr. Worthington could not take the
+resigned view of their circumstances that his wife took, but often gave
+way to complaining. But Mrs. Worthington thanked God that things were no
+worse and ever encouraged her husband with the promises that God would
+provide.
+
+At last Christmas morning came and found them in extreme poverty. Mr.
+Worthington still weak from his illness, but able to go around a little,
+came in from his morning walk very gloomy and feeling that his friends
+were very few. "This is the saddest Christmas I have ever known," he
+said to Mrs. Worthington. "It is almost more than I can bear to know
+that I have nothing to give the children today, and barely enough in the
+house to eat. I did not realize it so keenly until I saw an old man
+trudging along Thirty-first Street with a large pack upon his back. That
+man was surely going to surprise some of his friends. How much we need a
+friend like that!" "Never mind," said Mrs. Worthington softly; "God has
+promised to be a friend in time of need, and I believe he will care for
+us today."
+
+As she finished speaking, a rap was heard at the door. Mr. Worthington
+arose slowly, wondering who could be their early caller. When he opened
+the door, he was greatly surprised to see the aged man with the pack and
+to find him to be his own father. Mr. Worthington had entered the house
+too soon to see his father turn the corner and enter the yard.
+
+As the large burden was laid upon the floor and unpacked, there seemed
+to be no end to the good things. A turkey, cake, pies, in fact, all that
+was needful for a generous Christmas dinner, as well as a gift for each
+one. It was a very thankful family that gathered around the table that
+day.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+
+CONSECRATION.
+
+In regard to her children, Mrs. Worthington had passed through a deep
+consecration. She fully realized that they were only lent her by the
+Lord, entrusted to her care to be trained for usefulness in his service,
+and she was determined to do all in her power to prepare them as the
+Lord intended. In all sincerity, she had placed her children upon the
+altar of consecration, promising God never to let her will interfere
+with his designs concerning them.
+
+I do not think a child of God ever makes a consecration that is not
+tested in some form or other. This mother's consecration was tested.
+
+A wealthy aunt, having lost all her children and being very lonely,
+thought to fill the vacancy in her heart and home by adopting a little
+child. After several vain attempts to find a suitable child, she sought
+the home of her niece, Mrs. Worthington. She came with many misgivings.
+When she made her errand known, her niece said: "Auntie, my children are
+no longer mine; I have given them to the Lord, and whatever is his will
+concerning them shall be mine. You will have to obtain my husband's
+consent." Thus far Aunt A. was delighted with her success, and she
+eagerly sought the father. She tried to point out to Mrs. Worthington,
+who was heartbroken at the prospect of losing her child, how abundantly
+able she (the aunt) was to provide for the child and spoke of the
+extreme poverty of the Worthington home. The mother knew all this, but
+she knew too that God's Spirit does not always rule in wealthy homes.
+Would she do right to let her child slip from under her parental care?
+Many thoughts of this nature surged through her brain, and many
+temptations to say no came to her; but instead of giving a decisive
+answer she sought counsel from the all-wise Counselor. While in prayer
+she thought of faithful Abraham's trial regarding Isaac, and she felt
+that God was just as able to carry her through temptation or test, if
+she submitted all to his will.
+
+Mr. Worthington gave his consent for one of the children to go for a
+visit. The aunt having chosen Bessie, hasty preparations were made for
+their departure. As the mother kissed her curly-haired little girl
+good-by, her heart seemed bursting with sorrow. She tried to control her
+feelings, but only God knew the wound that her aunt's parting words
+made. "Use your influence in my behalf, Niece, with your husband, in
+case we want to keep Bessie," she had said, and then the great train
+moved slowly from the station. Abraham was all the mother could think of
+on her return home. Oh! would God give her back her child?
+
+Letter after letter came, each telling how fond the aunt and her husband
+were of Bessie and how happy she was in her new home, but not a word
+about her return. Four, five, six weeks passed. Then one day a letter
+came stating that they had decided not to adopt a child now and that, as
+Bessie was getting homesick, the parents might expect her home the next
+day. Then, it had been only a test! Oh, how glad Mrs. Worthington was
+that she had been faithful. Yes, her God was the very same God that
+Abraham had served centuries before. It was hard to wait until
+train-time the next day. When once more the loving mother held her
+darling child in her arms, the tears that could not flow for weeks
+streamed freely.
+
+Bessie was glad to be at home again. After the cold, formal, loveless
+life at her aunt's, she appreciated her own humble home more than ever
+before.
+
+But a far greater test was waiting the dear mother--one that would call
+for more than human strength to bear.
+
+After Bessie's return Mrs. Worthington put forth every effort to teach
+her children more about heavenly things. She bore in mind the
+scripture, "Train up a child in the way it should go; and when it is
+old, it will not depart from it." As she did not want to fail along this
+line, she spent every spare moment with her children. And she seldom let
+them go from home to visit unaccompanied by her; but one day, being very
+busy, she let them go alone to their grandmother's. The distance was not
+great, and Bessie, now nearly six years old, knew the way perfectly. All
+would have been well had their grandmother been at home. She being away,
+the girls stopped to watch some children at play. These children were
+breaking old bottles that they had picked up in the alley. As the little
+girls stood watching the sport, a large brown bottle was brought forth
+and with a heavy stroke of the hammer was broken. Small pieces of the
+glass flew in every direction. One piece struck Louise on the palm of
+the hand just below the thumb, knocking off the skin, but not producing
+a wound deep enough to bleed. Her grandmother, who appeared on the
+scene just at this time, examined the wound. She though it would soon be
+all right, but bound it up with a cloth to satisfy the child. The
+children played as usual and then returned home in time for supper.
+
+When they came in, their mother, who had been very busy through the day
+at housecleaning, was preparing a hasty supper, and she gave them no
+special attention. The family were soon seated around the supper-table.
+They had not been there long until Mrs. Worthington noticed that Louise
+was not eating. She asked the child why she did not eat, but received no
+reply. On being asked if her throat was sore, Louise nodded her head.
+Still the mother did not think the child's condition serious; and, after
+pinning a flannel around the child's neck, she did the evening work and
+prepared to attend a prayer-meeting. She had noticed the rag upon
+Louise's hand, but Bessie had laughed about the little cut and said,
+"Grandma tied it up just to please Louise."
+
+Although the meeting that night was unusually good, Mrs. Worthington
+could not forget the expression on her child's face as they had kissed
+each other good-by. It seemed to be before her all the time; so she
+really felt relieved when the meeting closed and she could return.
+
+Upon entering her home she immediately asked her husband, "How is
+Louise?" He answered that she had been very naughty and cross and that
+he had been obliged to punish her. This news increased the mother's
+fears. Feeling of the child's head, she found it hot and feverish.
+
+As Louise continued to grow worse, at two o'clock in the morning Mrs.
+Worthington thought it best to examine the child's throat; but when the
+mother asked the little girl to open her mouth, she said, "Mama, I
+can't."
+
+"What!" exclaimed the mother, "you can not open your mouth! Why, child,
+what is the matter with you?" Although Louise tried repeatedly to open
+her mouth, she could force her teeth apart only about an eighth of an
+inch, and only with great difficulty could she speak.
+
+By this time Mr. Worthington had fully awakened to the fact that
+something serious was troubling his child, and he sprang to her side. As
+soon as possible they summoned a doctor. He found that the cut on her
+hand had caused lockjaw, but said that there was no cause for alarm. The
+parents, however, felt very anxious and called in several doctors for
+consultation. They found that it was too late to do anything for the
+child. "The course of this disease," said the doctors, "is usually very
+rapid; and we are sorry that we can offer no hope."
+
+When Mrs. Worthington heard the doctors' verdict, anguish such as she
+had never experienced before filled her soul. Her thoughts went back to
+the previous night. Oh! why had she not examined the child closely
+then? In her distress she cried to the Lord, saying, "Dear Lord, what
+can this mean? Must I go through another test with one of my children?
+If so, help me to say amen to thy will!"
+
+Everything possible was done for the comfort of the little sufferer. The
+little life was swiftly nearing its close. Even when the doctors
+injected medicine into her arm to relieve her pain, she did not murmur.
+Forgetful for a moment of her suffering, she looked into her mother's
+eyes and said, "Mama, I love you"; then turning to her father, "Papa, I
+love you"; and then to the doctors and friends, "I like all these
+folks."
+
+What a beautiful testimony? She had only kindly feelings in her heart
+for all, even for the doctors, who seemed to be her enemies. Her words
+were as a message sent from God as they fell into that mother's heart.
+They seemed as sweet incense and a soothing balm to her troubled spirit.
+Gazing into the child's face, the mother read of the tender,
+compassionate love of God for suffering humanity; she read of the depth
+of Christ's love for the innocent and pure; and, by the heavenly smile
+that lighted the little face as her darling sank into unconsciousness,
+she saw that the child realized her Savior's presence.
+
+Slowly the tide is going out; the soul of the child is passing from the
+mother's presence into life immortal. "O my darling, speak to me once
+more!" The large blue eyes slowly unclose; a look of disappointment
+comes into them as she says, "Where has Jesus gone?" The dear eyes
+softly close; she sinks again into unconsciousness; the beautiful
+expression of happiness returns; the mother knows that her darling is in
+the arms of Jesus and is content.
+
+Mrs. Worthington did not sorrow as those who have no hope; for she knew
+that her heavenly Father knew best, and she could look up with
+confidence and say, "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away:
+blessed be the name of the Lord." With the father it was different. Up
+to this time he had never had any serious thoughts of a future life. He
+knew that his wife was a good woman, but he considered her religious
+views rather strange. She had seen so much error among the popular
+religious denominations and had felt such bondage when meeting with
+them, that she worshiped with a few spiritual people in a little
+prayer-meeting. Because of this peculiarity, he had even feared that her
+mind was affected; but now, when he saw her fortitude under deep trial,
+he felt that surely there was an unseen power supporting her--a power
+that he secretly longed to possess, although the time for attaining it
+he set indefinitely in the future.
+
+As Louise had been his idol, his grief was deep. It stirred his whole
+being. Her last testimony had convinced him that there is a Savior, that
+he is interested in mankind, and that he is able to keep in every
+affliction. Standing by the cold, lifeless form of his little daughter,
+he promised God that he would meet her in heaven.
+
+After these things Mrs. Worthington realized more keenly than ever the
+value of confidence between children and parents. With renewed energy
+she sought daily to strengthen that cord which now seemed to her almost
+divine. Her daily talks now contained a richer and deeper meaning to
+Bessie, whose understanding of heavenly things was growing clearer since
+her sister's death. Through her mother's teaching she gained a knowledge
+of God and spiritual life that would have taken her many, many years to
+comprehend had she been left to herself.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was surprised and pleased to note Bessie's confidence
+in her mother's teaching. One day, in answer to the assertion of a
+little neighbor girl that Louise was not alive, but dead and buried,
+Bessie said, "I know Sister's body is dead and buried, but her soul is
+living with Jesus. He was waiting for her when she died and took her
+soul away with him."
+
+"I am glad, my child," said her mother, sometime after this
+conversation, "that you love to come to me with things that trouble you;
+for as you're going to school now, you can not help hearing and seeing
+many things that I would rather keep from you until you're older. You'll
+see and hear many things that you should allow no place in your life;
+but if you'll always come to me, I'll instruct you so that they'll not
+be harmful to you. When I was a child, how I longed for some one in whom
+I could confide! My mother was a good woman, but she didn't realize how
+I often longed to unburden my heart to her. Father understood this
+desire, and we often had confidential talks.
+
+"I shall never forget my gratitude when he took me upon his knee one day
+and told me about many dangers young girls must meet and explained how I
+might avoid them. His words were just in time; for I had often been
+allowed to spend the evening at the home of a little friend, who, like
+myself, was not taught how to meet danger. At first our play had been
+innocent sports, but a short time before my father's talk a cousin had
+come to board with the family and attend school. He at once encouraged
+us to play a game of cards with him. As I knew nothing of the evil of
+card-playing, I was eager to learn; for he gave me much praise and
+allowed me to win very often, always rewarding me with a pile of candy.
+The appearance of so much candy in my possession had led to my father's
+talk. As father unfolded the nature of card-playing and gambling, a
+horror for them that has never left me came into my heart. After this I
+often sought my father's counsel; his faithful admonitions and tender
+words of encouragement caused me to have more and more confidence in
+him."
+
+Mrs. Worthington sighed deeply as she continued, "The memory of my dear
+father is sacred, Bessie. Many times I've thanked the Lord that my
+father knew the worth of prayer and the value of the confidence of his
+children. He helped me to tide over the most critical period of my life,
+and I love to recall the encouragement of his devoted life."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+
+CONSCIENCE.
+
+One day when Bessie was about eight years old, she said: "Mama, you've
+often told me that if I'd listen to the voice of conscience it would
+keep me out of danger. What is conscience? I don't understand."
+
+"My dear child," answered her mother, "your happiness depends upon a
+pure conscience, one that is void of offense. By the Lord's help, I will
+gladly explain. Conscience is that which causes us to feel bad when we
+do what we've been taught to be wrong. At first it is very tender and
+active. Then, no matter how enticing the temptation, the conscience will
+warn one not to yield. You've heard your conscience speaking to you,
+haven't you, Bessie?"
+
+"Yes, Mama," answered Bessie; "that was why I wanted to know more about
+it. I thought at first it was some person speaking; but when I
+remembered you had told me that we each have a conscience to tell us to
+do right, I knew it must be the voice of conscience."
+
+"When it speaks, you must listen," said Mrs. Worthington. "Give heed to
+its warnings. This little story will show you how careful we should be
+to heed the warning voice of conscience.
+
+"'Wishing to arise at an early hour each morning, a gentleman purchased
+an alarm-clock. He took it home, and, having set it, went to bed and
+slept soundly. In the morning, to the gentleman's great delight, the
+clock aroused him, so that he was able to get to work in time.
+
+"'For a time he would spring out of bed as soon as the alarm sounded,
+and the clock never failed to wake him. One morning, however, on hearing
+the clock sound its usual alarm, he awoke, but, feeling a little sleepy,
+he lay back on his pillow, thinking that he would get up in a short
+time. In a few minutes he fell asleep, and did not awake again until
+very late. He dressed hastily, and, missing his breakfast, hurried away
+to his work. He resolved not to be so foolish again, and for a time did
+better; but in a few days he had again overslept. He became more and
+more neglectful, failing time after time to heed the alarm. At length it
+only partially aroused him, and he soon slumbered again. Day by day it
+disturbed him less, until at last it did not arouse him at all, although
+it sounded as loudly as ever.'
+
+"So will it be with your conscience. If you don't heed its voice, you'll
+hear it speaking less loudly each day until its voice will at last cause
+you no discomfort. You'll then be in a very dangerous moral condition.
+No one but God can help you out. This is one reason why, Bessie, many
+people can do things that you can not.
+
+"Satan aimed his first blow at the conscience; for if he can silence it,
+then he can lead the soul deeper and deeper into sin."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+
+A DOWNWARD STEP.
+
+"I have good news for you, Bessie," said Mrs. Worthington as Bessie came
+skipping into the room from her play. "Your papa and I have decided to
+leave our little home here in Chicago and buy a home in Michigan."
+
+"Oh, how nice!" exclaimed Bessie, who was still in her eighth year.
+"Shall we live with Aunt Emma again?"
+
+"Yes, or rather she will live with us," said her mother, smiling. "Your
+auntie's health is very poor, and she is tired of the responsibility of
+farming; so we'll relieve her."
+
+The following weeks were happy ones for Bessie. The Lord had been good
+to her in many ways. He had given her a little baby brother to love and
+care for, and now she was about to have a pleasant home in the country.
+She had not forgotten the good times she had enjoyed on the farm with
+her little sister, and she was very eager for the month of August to
+come, the time when the family was to move. At last the time came to
+start. With beating heart Bessie counted the hours that must pass before
+she could run in the orchard and eat the luscious fruit.
+
+It was late in the afternoon when the Worthington family arrived at
+their new home. The greetings over, Bessie was contemplating a ramble
+where she had noticed some large red apples hanging; but just then her
+aunt said, "Bessie, you must not pick any of the fruit on the place this
+summer, as the farm is rented and the fruit does not belong to us." This
+was such a disappointment to the little girl that she could not restrain
+her tears.
+
+As the days passed by, she often looked longingly toward the tree where
+hung the beautiful apples, but she never once thought of pulling one,
+for her mother had carefully taught her the great evil of stealing. "But
+oh!" thought Bessie, "if only one of the apples would fall upon the
+ground, I could pick it up, and I wouldn't be stealing it." With this
+wish in her heart, she daily watched the trees in hopes that just one
+would fall.
+
+At last her hope was realized. Walking through the orchard one day after
+a hard wind-storm, she spied several large red apples lying in the soft
+sand. With a fast-beating heart, she hastened to pick them all up; and,
+placing them carefully in her apron, she hurried to the house, oft
+repeating to herself, "I didn't steal them, for the wind blew them off."
+
+As she entered the house, she began to tell how she came by the apples,
+but stopped in dismay, for she saw her mother's look of disapproval.
+Very tenderly Mrs. Worthington took her little daughter aside and,
+sitting down by her, said: "My dear, you don't understand what you've
+done: those apples are as truly stolen as if you had picked them from
+the tree. You must take them to Mrs. S. and explain that you didn't
+know you were stealing them. Taking little things and trying to ease the
+conscience by saying, 'It doesn't amount to anything,' causes the
+conscience to fall asleep and to cease its activity. Thus the evil habit
+of taking what doesn't belong to us becomes a part of our nature, and
+step by step we fall into greater sin.
+
+"I once heard of a young man who was about to be hanged upon the
+gallows. Just before the fatal moment he received permission to speak to
+any of his friends, if he desired. Calling for his aunt, who had reared
+him, he moved forward as if to speak to her, but instead he bit off her
+ear. Amid the exclamations of horror that followed, the young man said:
+'You think what I have done is cruel. Let me tell you that, had my aunt
+done her duty by me, I should not be here today. Had she taken the pains
+to inquire where I obtained the lead pencils, knives, handkerchiefs, and
+other small articles which I brought home from time to time; had she
+not accepted the flimsy excuse that I had found them; had she warned me
+of my danger, and not praised me for "finding" the things I had
+stolen,--I might have escaped this awful end.'
+
+"So, Bessie, you can see the danger of allowing anything like
+this--though it does appear a trifle--to pass by unnoticed. You may go
+and return the apples to Mrs. S., who is now in the orchard."
+
+The lesson was severe and lasting; and as Bessie returned the apples to
+their rightful owner, it settled deep into her heart.
+
+Parents, beware. Through neglect, the habit of lying begins. An untruth
+is passed over carelessly and the child allowed to cover up its sins
+without realizing their sinfulness. Likewise, many other evil habits
+that have wrecked lives and brought sorrow and disgrace into homes may
+be traced to the same carelessness on the part of parents and friends.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+
+A WISE DECISION.
+
+The lake in front of the Worthington home, though nearly five miles in
+length, had too small a harbor to permit the entrance of the large
+Chicago boats. It was therefore necessary, each evening in summer, for
+small steamboats to gather up the fruit from the farms along the lake
+and to carry it to the nearest port for large steamers. It was
+interesting to see the piles of berry crates loaded upon the steamer
+from the docks extending out into the lake. At such times a crowd of
+young people frequently arranged to go for a pleasant ride on Lake
+Michigan, and a few times Bessie had gone.
+
+There was to be such an excursion on the occasion of which I wish to
+speak, and the young people expected to attend a circus in a city close
+to the haven to which they were going. Bessie wished very much to go.
+She soon obtained her father's consent, but went to her mother with many
+misgivings, for she knew that her mother never went to a circus and that
+she had always spoken against her going at other times.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was very busy, but she always had time to advise her
+daughter and to hear her requests. She listened carefully to every word
+her daughter had to say, and then remained silent for a few minutes. At
+length she said: "Bessie, there are many things to consider about your
+going. You know how I love to have you go for a ride on the water when I
+know you are in good company. I also love to have you attend places of
+interest to you, when I know there's nothing to defile your mind or lead
+you from the path of purity. But, Daughter, there are many things in the
+world that look beautiful to the eye but tend to lead the soul astray.
+Do you think Jesus would go to a circus? Do you think you could get any
+good should you go? You have passed your tenth birthday. I think you're
+old enough to take this matter to God in prayer and let him decide it
+for you. Go and ask him to direct you to some passage of Scripture that
+will open your understanding and help you to know what he wants you to
+do."
+
+"Oh, mama," said Bessie, who had felt strange about the matter, "please
+tell me yes or no, and I'll say no more about it."
+
+"No, Bessie; it will, in many ways, be better for you to do as I've
+said," answered her mother tenderly but decisively.
+
+Very reluctantly Bessie left the room, and, taking her Bible, whispered
+a prayer that she might open it to something that would help her to
+decide. As she opened the book, her eyes fell upon these words: "Vanity
+of vanities, saith the preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity."
+Hurriedly she turned the pages, thinking that she might perhaps have
+opened to that passage anyway. Next she read, "I said in mine heart, Go
+to now, I will prove thee with mirth; therefore, enjoy pleasure: and
+behold this also is vanity." Returning to her mother, she read the
+words, but ended by saying, "I might have turned to that anyway."
+
+"Bessie," said Mrs. Worthington, "those words were written by the wisest
+man the world has ever known, one who had the privilege of enjoying
+every known pleasure under the sun. But when he had tried them all, he
+sat down and wrote the words you have just read, and also said, 'All is
+vanity and vexation of spirit.' Now you have my view of the subject, and
+you have Solomon's; but if you are still in doubt, go and pray."
+
+Bessie was not satisfied. She slipped away the second time and fell upon
+her knees. She cried, "O Lord, you once answered Gideon with a sign; now
+please give me a sign and help me to know whether I should stay at home
+or not. If you don't want me to go, make it rain." Though simple and
+short, the prayer came from the heart. She was determined to know God's
+will concerning her; and to such God never turns a deaf ear.
+
+The next morning she went to the door and looked at the sky. The day was
+perfect. The sun was shining brightly, and a cool, gentle breeze was
+blowing. Just one tiny cloud was in the sky, and that seemed to be
+floating toward the sun. As she watched the cloud, she saw it gradually
+increase in size, and at last down came the rain in great drops. Nothing
+further was needed to convince Bessie that God wanted her to remain at
+home; and now her staying was no longer a cross to her.
+
+She ran to her father and explained that God did not want her to go,
+telling him about her prayer and its answer. Her childish words and
+simple faith touched her father's proud heart, but all he said was,
+"It's all right, Bessie; but you'll go down to the landing and say
+good-by to your friends, won't you?"
+
+As she told the girls why she could not go with them and watched the
+gay party leave the shore, she was not sad, but happy. She kept thinking
+how kind the dear Lord had been to answer her prayer so wonderfully.
+When bedtime came, she rested sweetly, having no wounded conscience to
+trouble or accuse her.
+
+But how about the excursion party? They had an ideal trip on Lake
+Michigan, attended the show, and started to return. The breeze that had
+been so gently blowing through the day began to increase at sunset, and
+by the late hour of their return it had become a gale. But not realizing
+the fierceness of the storm, they started home. When they reached their
+own harbor, they found that they could not enter with safety; so they
+anchored the boat and spent the remainder of the night on the wildly
+tossing waves. In the morning the wind gradually died away, and the
+weary, seasick crowd made their way home.
+
+When Bessie learned of their serious experience, she appreciated more
+than ever the Lord's goodness in leading her to stay at home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+
+SELF-CONTROL.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was greatly encouraged when she saw what a blessing her
+little girl had received from what appeared to be a sore trial. She felt
+that the time was opportune to plant the seed of self-control within the
+young heart. In a little while she found an opportunity to begin.
+
+"Bessie," she began when ready for the talk, "I have some important
+things to tell you today. I wish to speak of your future. There comes a
+time in the life of every girl when she must change from childhood to
+womanhood; she can not always remain a child. Until this time arrives,
+she is very dependent and must lean entirely upon her parents' advice;
+but as her mind begins to mature, she should be taught the necessity of
+weighing matters well and of finding out God's will.
+
+"Until the present time all you have done has been at the suggestion of
+your parents, but it will be different in the future. With your
+teaching, you are able to look to God for a part of your direction. I
+shall continue to advise, and, if necessary, to punish you; but I want
+you to take things to the Lord in prayer and become satisfied within
+your heart that my advice is according to the Word of God. You must not
+think you haven't needed the teaching and the guidance you've had thus
+far in life; and you'll need more careful training than you've ever had.
+The point I want to impress upon your mind is that there's an element
+within you, called self, that you must learn to control. At times self
+will arise and cause you to feel that you know some things even better
+than Mama. That is the time to remember that Mama has had more
+experience than you; that her judgment is better than yours; and that
+you must rely upon it until God helps you to see a matter as she sees
+it. That was the way you gained the blessing from that experience a few
+days ago. In this way you will learn the lessons that are so important
+to your future.
+
+"There are many other things, my dear, that I want to talk to you about
+soon, but you must be patient a little longer. In the meantime, however,
+you may ask me any question you please, and I'll answer you. Don't go to
+other girls with these things, but come to me. I'm always glad to
+explain to you anything that seems strange. When you're old enough to
+desire the knowledge and to form the questions, you're old enough to
+receive an answer to your questions. Come to me often: what seems
+strange to both of us we can take to God in prayer, and let him teach
+us.
+
+"Another thing you must do is to turn away from bad associates. Avoid
+girls who say, 'I'll tell you something if you'll promise not to tell
+your mother.' Remember that anything you could not tell me would not be
+worth hearing; for it's sure to be something unclean or vulgar.
+Conversing with such girls won't help you to draw close to the Lord nor
+to know his will concerning you. Much less would it help you to meditate
+upon the pure and holy things of God. To elevate your soul, Bessie, you
+must become serious, and seek only those companions whose conversation
+is kind, gentle, and modest. I believe your desire is to become more
+like Jesus and to prepare for heaven. So, my child, meditate upon God,
+and you will grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ. Misspent moments
+are so much of life and character thrown away; be careful to use them
+all in God's service.
+
+"Here's a little poem you may learn. It may help you to control self and
+to value your moments as you should."
+
+
+MY MOMENTS.
+
+_Oh, my precious little moments,
+  Gliding now so swiftly by;
+May I each one spend for Jesus
+  Ere I see them past me fly.
+
+May I lade each one with something
+  To be borne to God above,
+Fill each full of deeds worth counting,
+  That will prove my perfect love.
+
+For I would not have them enter
+  Through those portals bright and fair
+Bearing not a single token
+  For my Master waiting there.
+
+Golden moments, as you carry
+  Trophies on your upward flight,
+Take my character to Jesus;
+  For I've kept it clean and white._
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+
+PARENTAL CONTROL.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was not only a prayerful mother, but a mother wise in
+home government. Her wisdom, however, came from God. Many a time she
+felt incapable of giving the advice her young daughter needed; but she
+always remembered the scripture which reads, "If any of you lack wisdom,
+let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth
+not; and it shall be given." After she had spent a season in prayerful
+meditation, God would supply the words and understanding. Thus she could
+say with the apostle Paul, that her strength was made perfect in
+weakness, because her dependence was in Christ.
+
+O mothers, let us learn that God, the Author of home and families, is
+always interested in the quality and the training of the children. He
+does not create to cast aside. Neither does anything come by chance. He
+wills that each tender human plant be nourished and cherished until
+well fitted to fill its place and calling in life. In childhood's
+dependent days, the parents should be all to the children that they can
+not be to themselves. It is not enough that your child be well fed and
+clothed; its young mind must be guided into proper channels. What work
+is more noble, more elevating than the teaching of the undeveloped mind?
+Let not the duties of life nor the claims of society so press upon you
+as to cause you to neglect your child's character or its education in
+either temporal or spiritual matters.
+
+As Solomon says, "Take away the little foxes that destroy the vines." It
+is the little things passed carelessly by that grow larger and larger,
+and stronger and stronger, within the young heart until at last the
+unsuspecting parents awake in alarm to behold their child in dreadful
+bondage. Beware! Guard your child every moment it is under your care.
+You can not go as companion to your child upon the street or to school,
+but your influence may attend his every path through life. Do not be
+discouraged should you hear him use a slang word, but take him at once
+and tenderly tell him what slang phrases will lead to. Do not speak
+harshly, but explain in the most loving manner possible. In this way you
+will cultivate in him a distaste for impure language. A pure, refined
+nature will be the result. Moreover, as that child realizes through your
+faithful instruction, the true meaning of sin, he will make you his
+confidant and will come to you rather than seek the counsel of younger
+companions. Thus you will be able to control his mind and to instil
+within his mind pure and upright desires.
+
+Within your home is the place to shine for God. There is no greater
+field of labor. A Christian mother's influence among the young can not
+be too highly valued. No one can fill your place in the hearts of your
+children. Another can provide their temporal needs, but nobody can take
+the place of Mother. No one else can enter into the daily trials as you
+can. Nothing else can soothe the wounded feelings as well as a tender
+embrace or a word from mother. Be liberal, dear mothers, with these
+tokens of sympathy, so sweet to your child; and think not for one moment
+that you are not fulfilling God's plan concerning you or that moments
+thus spent are wasted. It is only a short time at best that we can be
+blessed with the privilege of instructing our children.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+
+CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE.
+
+As Bessie grew older, Mrs. Worthington chose the twilight hour for
+confidential talks with her daughter. Both looked forward to these times
+with pleasure. Each evening after the daily duties were ended, Bessie
+might be found sitting at her mother's feet. Here she related the many
+happenings of the day and in turn received instruction and advice from
+the one who held her confidence. Here the mother taught her child the
+secret of true devotion. She instructed Bessie that prayer, good
+reading, and meditation are the keys to use to unlock God's great
+storehouse of blessings. She pointed to the Bible as a pattern by which
+to fashion one's life, pointing out to her the many scriptures bearing
+upon different subjects and telling her how every modest, earnest
+Christian ought to dress and act in order to adorn the gospel of
+Christ. She encircled the word "purity" with such a halo of glory that
+she awakened within the heart of her child a determination ever to live
+so pure a life that she would not only keep herself stainless but also
+help others to that sacred and elevated plane.
+
+Upon one of these occasions, when Bessie was in her twelfth year, she
+said: "Mama, why don't we go to the meetings that are being held at the
+schoolhouse on Sunday? The girls have asked me several times, and I have
+told them I didn't know. They have a minister from a distance, and he
+has taken the names of all who want to join the church."
+
+"That is a deep subject, my child," said Mrs. Worthington. "I have often
+wished to explain to you my reasons for not attending the public
+services held in our neighborhood by the different denominations, but
+have feared you were still too young to understand, for the matter seems
+hard even for some older persons to comprehend. But I will tell you and
+trust the Lord to make it plain.
+
+"My parents taught me that it was my duty to attend religious services
+at least once a week. This I did, and professed to be a Christian until
+I was a young woman. I knew that I loved the Lord and wanted to do
+right, but found that I could not always do right in my own strength. I
+was daily doing things that displeased the Lord. I became so troubled
+about my condition that one day I went to the minister, and, telling him
+how I felt, requested him to pray for me and to help me to get a real
+Bible experience. In answer to my request, he only smiled and said, 'You
+are too particular. You might as well try to split a hair as to try to
+live a holy life in this world.'
+
+"As I returned home that day, I was very sad indeed. Oh, how much I
+longed to be like Jesus, whom God had given me as an example! I knew the
+Bible taught that if we expect to enter heaven we must live a pure and
+holy life. I was determined to do this--but how was I to do it? To whom
+could I go for help? Most of the church-members were so worldly-minded
+they thought of little else than a good time, and the few spiritual ones
+were afraid to tell how they felt, for fear of their minister's
+displeasure.
+
+"At last I decided to seek from God and his Word what my soul was
+longing for. As I sought, I began to see I had been deceived. I found
+that as God looked upon mankind, he could see only two classes of
+people--the righteous and sinners; and I saw that I was a sinner.
+
+"By reading the twelfth chapter of First Corinthians, I learned that
+Christ's body is the church; that to become a member of the church my
+name must be written in heaven; that every Christian in the world is my
+brother or sister in Christ; the Lamb's book of life is the only
+class-book in which our names need to be recorded; and that our names
+are removed only because of our turning again to sin. To me these
+thoughts were both new and marvelous. I saw that every saved person in
+the different denominations is a Christian and a member of God's true
+church, but I knew that such persons were unable to worship God aright
+for fear of displeasing their ministers or of breaking some of the
+church-rules. And when I read in 2 Cor. 6:14 that we are not to be
+unequally yoked together with unbelievers, I felt that I must come out
+and stand alone. This I promised God to do at any cost, and asked him to
+give me a Bible experience. He answered my prayer; and I was so happy
+that I walked the floor for a long time, clapping my hands and praising
+God.
+
+"Because of the course I had taken many misunderstood me and thought I
+was partially insane. Even your dear papa thinks so still, but I dare
+not grieve God by going back.
+
+"I have had some dreams that have greatly encouraged me. The first was
+given while I was wondering why I could not find any one who believed
+the whole Bible. I seemed to be standing in a meeting-house; the service
+was ended and nearly every one had gone home. I noticed a woman in great
+distress. Going to her, I found that she had a very sore hand and that
+she was alone, with no one to help her home through the darkness. With
+her consent, I quickly picked her up in my arms and carried her safely
+through a long, dark, narrow passage. As we passed along, I spoke words
+of encouragement to her. Suddenly we came out into a large open field
+carpeted with flowers, and there I laid her down, saying, 'How nicely we
+have gotten along alone.' Then I awoke.
+
+"For some time I could not see the meaning of the dream. At last I
+understood that the afflicted woman was I myself and that the Savior
+wanted to carry me through the dark and dangerous way of life alone.
+
+"At another time I dreamed I was riding on a locomotive. Again I was
+alone. The seat that I was sitting on was so small I had to be very
+careful lest I be injured by the machinery around me. I didn't think of
+danger while the train was in motion; but as it drew up at a certain
+station, I began to consider my position. The thought came, 'What will
+people think of me? They will certainly say I am stealing a ride.' I
+remembered my ticket, and, placing my hand upon it, I felt satisfied. At
+the next station I could see inside of the passenger coaches. I had a
+good view of the passengers in one of the coaches, and I recognized the
+prominent members of the denomination I had lately left. As they sat in
+their cushioned seats, carelessly talking to one another, they all
+seemed happy and contented. My own condition then arose before me, and I
+felt lonely indeed and thought, 'I will step down from my little seat
+and enter the coach with the rest.' I was just about to do this--even
+had my hand upon the door knob--when I realized that I had left my
+dress in the little seat, and again I awoke.
+
+"The dream seemed very plain in every way. My ticket was my experience
+and title to heaven, and the dress left up in the tiny seat was the robe
+of Christ's righteousness. While alone and contented, I was all right,
+but to return to the denomination would mean to leave both robe and
+title behind.
+
+"Still, God has given me some devoted Christian friends, who are willing
+to live as the Bible directs, and with these I worship as you know,
+dear, in our little weekly prayer-meetings. I trust that some day your
+father will see and will understand me better, and that we can worship
+God together. But I will be faithful even though I should be forced to
+walk alone.
+
+"Now, dear, I trust you can see that the true church is Christ's body
+and that every soul is a member as long as he continues to live a pure
+and holy life. Whether he is a member of some sect or not, sin will cut
+him off; and if he continues to profess as I did, he is a hypocrite in
+God's sight. 'Come out from among them and be ye separate' is a command
+that every Christian should obey."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+
+THE BEAUTIFUL SECRET.
+
+The mother's talks about her own Christian experience enabled Bessie to
+understand the beautiful secret of salvation--an influence that was to
+beautify her character and to mold her whole subsequent career. Bessie's
+developing mind was able to grasp firmly the golden thread of religious
+truth, which, unraveling from the tangle of sectism, had guided her
+faithful mother into the fulness of divine truth.
+
+Thus it was--
+
+    _In the gentle hush of evening,
+      When the sun sank in the west;
+    When the little bird was nestling
+      In its quiet, sheltered nest;
+    When the stars were brightly shining
+      From the lofty sky above,
+    Bessie learned the lovely secret
+      Of her Savior's perfect love._
+
+    _In the twilight's deep'ning shadows,
+      At her loving mother's feet,
+    Sat she often on a hassock,
+      Hearing words of counsel sweet.
+    Sacred season was this hour
+      To the twain in waiting there,
+    Each the burden of the other
+      Sought to know and ofttimes share.
+
+    As the loving mother listened
+      To the record of the day,
+    To the questions of her daughter--
+      Spoken oft in childish way,
+    She in tenderness instructed
+      With the wisdom of the Lord,
+    Gained by prayer and careful study
+      Of his precious, holy Word.
+
+    There the character was strengthened;
+      Bessie's heart was made to feel
+    Greater love for her Creator,
+      For his work a deeper zeal.
+    And she saw God's plan for pardon,
+      To the feet of Jesus came,
+    And was able, like her mother,
+      Full salvation then to claim._
+
+    _Ah! fond mother, learn the secret
+      That will win thy children dear;
+    Draw them gently to thy bosom,
+      Ever seek their hearts to cheer.
+    From thy home exclude all worry,
+      Fretful cares, and sad'ning gloom;
+    But God's sunshine bid a welcome,
+      Let it shine in ev'ry room_.
+
+    _As a spring within a desert,
+      Thou mayst water each plant small;
+    But the plant itself must blossom--
+      Thou canst tend it, that is all.
+    Tiny human plants will flourish
+      In an atmosphere like this,
+    And will yield good, fruitful blossoms
+      That will bring true happiness_.
+
+    _Children always thirst for knowledge,
+      And ere long 'tis surely gained;
+    If not from a faithful mother,
+      'Tis from evil source obtained.
+    Blameless never is the mother
+      Who will not the trouble take
+    To instruct her precious children,
+      Close companions of them make_.
+
+    _Like a florist wise and zealous,
+      Guard thou well each blossom fair,
+    Lest the perfume and the sweetness
+      Vanish for the lack of care.
+    Choose thou then some place at even
+      When the daily toils are done,
+    Where life's many cares and blessings
+      May be numbered one by one.
+
+    God will give thee wisdom, mother,
+      To supply thine ev'ry need,
+    As thou givest wholesome knowledge,
+      When the childish voices plead.
+    Their young minds, so pure, unfolding,
+      Will reveal the secret fair
+    That will prove how great the value
+      Of a mother's love and pray'r._
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+
+BLESSING AND TRIAL.
+
+Now that Bessie had learned the secret of a Christian life, she longed
+to see others enjoying the love of God. She felt the greatest burden for
+her father. Oh, if she could see him enjoying salvation! She often
+poured out her desire in prayer, with childlike trust and confidence.
+God heard her prayers.
+
+One morning as she was passing the barn on her way to school, she heard
+some strange sounds. Peering through a window, she beheld a sight that
+made her wonder if she saw aright. There stood her beloved father, great
+tears streaming from his eyes, his countenance beaming with heavenly
+peace and joy, and praises to God pouring from his lips. What did it
+mean? In a weak voice she said, "Papa dear, what is the matter!"
+
+Turning he exclaimed: "Oh, Bessie, God has saved me! I am so happy! Run
+quick and tell your mother!" Bessie ran to the house to tell the glad
+news, but her father was there nearly as soon, saying, "Oh, I'm saved!
+You're right, wife. I know now that you're right, and I see things just
+as you do! I'm so happy and feel so different. Oh, help me to praise the
+dear Lord."
+
+Let us leave them in their happiness and follow Bessie to school. Her
+father's words rang as sweet music in her ears. How good the dear Lord
+was to answer her in her father's behalf! She felt that no good thing
+would be withheld from them that walk uprightly. But Bessie was soon to
+meet a severe and unexpected trial.
+
+Her mother had made her a school-dress. Though neat and pretty, it was
+of a material commonly used for men's shirts. Bessie knew this, but
+thought nothing of it until some of her schoolmates gathered round her
+at recess and said, "O girls, Bessie has a new dress like her father's
+shirt." Another said, "Perhaps it is his shirt." The remarks were
+certainly unkind, and Bessie felt them keenly; but she laughed and said,
+"Yes; I know it." Nothing more was said. But oh, that dress! How she
+disliked to wear it! At times she could hardly start to school with it
+on; but then she would think, "I know Mama thought it was pretty when
+she got it for me; and I thought it was nice until the girls made those
+remarks. I will try to like it for Mama's sake."
+
+With such thoughts in her mind she returned home from school one
+evening. When she reached the house, she saw that no one was at home;
+but, knowing where the key was kept, she easily gained admittance.
+Finding herself alone in the house, she thought: "Now is the time to
+learn to like my dress, and I'm going to do it. Mother shall not know
+how I have felt about it." She hastened into the parlor and stood before
+a large mirror.
+
+Now, Bessie knew that she did not have a pretty face, and she had gained
+the victory over that; but she did want to feel that her clothes looked
+well on her, and that was the battle she meant to fight that evening. As
+she slowly turned from side to side viewing herself intently, she liked
+the dress better and better. At last she thought it very pretty and
+becoming, and she knelt down and thanked God for giving it to her. As
+she changed it for her work-dress, she wondered why she had allowed the
+children's remarks to affect her so much and had not appreciated the
+dress more. No more remarks were ever made about the dress, and Bessie
+continued to admire it until it was worn out. No one but herself and the
+Lord knew of the struggle through which she passed.
+
+Through the trial concerning the dress, Bessie learned several valuable
+lessons: first, the less notice one takes of unkindness, the better;
+second, God's grace can keep in time of temptation; third, one should
+not murmur because of persecution; and, last, and best of all, God
+usually gives his children some great blessing before a severe trial,
+and the close relationship between the two makes them almost one in
+effect. She could now say with real appreciation:
+
+    _A little trial often tries,
+    But proves a blessing in disguise.
+    Just as the rough rock holds the gem,
+    The trial holds my diadem_.
+
+But a still greater trial was awaiting her. Bessie had a thirst for
+knowledge. She was doing well in school and wanted to do better. Instead
+of taking exercise during the daily intermissions, she often spent them
+in hard study. Her system, naturally frail, could not stand the strain.
+She contracted a fever and for three months despaired of life. In the
+third month dropsy of the chest set in; and, on account of smothering
+spells, she had to be bolstered up in bed with pillows.
+
+One day as Mrs. Worthington stood beside her child she felt that God
+wanted to heal her. Kneeling beside the bed, she prayed, "Dear Lord,
+heal my child, and grant that she may be spared to work for thee." From
+that time Bessie began to improve. She had no more smothering spells,
+and before long she was well and strong.
+
+Bessie found a blessing even in this trial. She saw that, had she been
+able to push ahead as she had desired, she might have lost sight of
+Jesus, and she now understood that her Savior cared for her body as well
+as for her soul.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+
+THE SURPRISE PARTY.
+
+As soon as Bessie was strong enough to go out, she was invited to stay
+all night with a friend. She supposed she was to be the only guest, but
+found that a surprise had been planned for her. A goodly number of her
+friends and schoolmates were present.
+
+The young folks spent a few hours very pleasantly in playing games, and
+Bessie enjoyed that part of the evening very much. But late in the
+evening some one proposed dancing, and the boys began to choose their
+partners. A very strange feeling came over Bessie when some one asked
+her to dance. She shook her head and said, "No; I do not know how to
+dance." Several urged her to try, but she said, "No; I would rather
+not."
+
+She was the only one that did not dance. As she sat watching the others,
+she wondered if it were right for boys and girls to act as these were
+acting. She had never heard that it is wrong to dance, but it did not
+look or seem right to her. She decided that on reaching home she would
+ask her mother.
+
+When Bessie got home the next morning, her mother asked, "Well, dear,
+did you have a good time?"
+
+"Oh, yes," answered Bessie; "most of the time I did." Then she told
+about the surprise party and about all that had happened, and concluded
+by asking, "Mama, is it right to dance?"
+
+"I have been thinking for a long time, Bessie, that I ought to have a
+talk with you about dancing and tell you of some of the evils to which
+it leads," answered her mother. "Dancing is an amusement that many girls
+consider very attractive. When asked why they think so, they hardly know
+what to answer, but generally speak of the music and the graceful
+motions."
+
+"Oh, Mama, the motions they made at the party last night were anything
+but graceful. I know you wouldn't have allowed me to do as they did,
+and I don't want to. It wasn't modest. I never want to go to a dance
+again."
+
+"I'm so glad, Bessie, you feel as you do about dancing; but, dear, to
+those who learn, there is something very fascinating about it. Some
+girls have said they would rather dance than eat; and, with a great
+many, I believe it is true.
+
+"Men of low character and of evil inclinations regard the dance-hall as
+a favorable place to betray unsuspecting girls and frequent it for that
+very purpose. Their victims are usually the sweetest and most trusting
+girls. Their beauty attracts undesirable attention, and their ignorance
+makes them an easy prey. O Bessie, there are so many unprincipled men in
+the world who love to win and betray the confidence of young innocent
+girls.
+
+"Philosophers tell us that 'perfect happiness comes only from a pleasure
+attractive to our moral nature in its purity and perfection. If we
+delight in pleasures of the other sort, our moral natures are degraded.'
+
+"You have noticed the immodest positions taken by those who dance, and
+you feel a deep sense of shame for them. Should you try to partake of
+their pleasure, your moral nature would be degraded, and you would in
+time lose that sense of shame and be as eager for the pleasure as any of
+the others. Thus yielding, one step at a time, you would cease to look
+upon the dance as immodest and would find real enjoyment in it, and
+perhaps would be led into greater sin. It is in this way that many girls
+lose their virtue. Then they are shunned by their old associates, who
+are really but a step higher in morality. Forsaken by friends, hopeless
+as to their future, deserted even by those who wrought their downfall,
+these poor girls sink lower and lower, and lead lives of shame and
+misery.
+
+"No spiritual-minded person will take part in worldly amusements, for he
+can not enjoy them. Christians who indulge in dancing turn away from
+God and seek fellowship with the world. Such are sure to lose the grace
+of God from their hearts."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+
+LEROY'S HEALING.
+
+Bessie's little brother, Leroy, now past five years of age, was far from
+being rugged. Though he had a full, round face and a large head, his
+body was emaciated and did not develop properly. He could go only a few
+steps without falling. He had fainting spells, which gradually increased
+in frequency and duration.
+
+Many times as Mrs. Worthington looked at her poor little boy, she lifted
+her heart to God in earnest prayer to know his will concerning the
+child. Many friends remarked that she would never be able to bring him
+up; but she knew that, if for the best, God could heal the child and
+give him right development.
+
+At last his illness became very serious. One night his head was burning
+with fever, while his body was cold and clammy. It seemed but a question
+of time until he would pass away.
+
+As Mrs. Worthington looked at her child, she remembered the words,
+"Man's extremity is God's opportunity," and "The prayer of faith shall
+save the sick." She wondered why God had brought them to her mind. She
+began to ask herself: "Do I believe that God can heal that child? If it
+is God's will to take him, can I submit?" To the first question she
+answered, "Yes; God made him," and to the second, "Thy will be done, O
+God." Then she breathed an earnest prayer for his healing. The sweet
+assurance came that her prayer was answered; that the child would grow
+well and strong. She felt that she could lie down by his side and trust
+him in the hands of the One who gave him.
+
+She placed a wet cloth on his head, lay down by his side, and knew no
+more until the next morning. Both slept soundly. When she awoke, she
+saw that the child was breathing naturally and that the fever was
+entirely gone. Then she fully realized that God had healed him. With a
+grateful heart she thanked the Lord for his tender love. It was indeed
+true that Leroy was well. About ten o'clock his mother carried him to
+the lake and, having Bessie to row the boat, gave him a pleasant
+boat-ride. The fever never returned; his head stopped growing; and he
+became a strong, healthy boy. The friends who had thought that he would
+surely die said they could not understand the change that had taken
+place, but Mrs. Worthington understood, and gave God all the praise.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+
+EXPLAINING THE DIVINE LIFE.
+
+After Bessie's conversion Mrs. Worthington's talks to her were often on
+the subject of the divine life within--how to care for it and nourish
+it, so that it might not die nor become blighted. She sometimes compared
+the young Christian's experience to that of a new-born babe. "You know,"
+said she, "the little one must be carefully fed, and tenderly guarded
+against everything harmful. Even a slight breeze blowing upon its little
+body, if unprotected, might result in death. But as the child grows
+older and stronger, it gradually becomes accustomed to the rude elements
+about it and can, with comparative safety, be brought in contact with
+them. The Christ life, new-born in the human heart, is just as sensitive
+and needs the same tender care. Guard it carefully, Bessie. It must be
+constantly nourished by prayer and the Word of God. Seek to become
+established by the grace of sanctification; then you will be better
+able to meet temptation and persecution. Christ is your shepherd, and he
+wants to lead you, his lamb, into green pastures and beside still
+waters.
+
+"A person may profess to be a Christian, Bessie; but unless he has a
+change of heart and affections, he is what the Bible terms a wolf in
+sheep's clothing, and not one of the gentle lambs of the Savior's fold.
+The profession does not amount to anything when the heart is full of
+envy, hatred, jealousy, love of self, and a drawing toward the world. A
+person with a profession only, may appear for a time to be quite
+lamb-like; but sooner or later the old nature will manifest itself, for
+it can not be hidden long."
+
+"I think, Mama," said Bessie, "I understand you--but you spoke of the
+experience of sanctification; please tell me what that means."
+
+As briefly as possible, the mother explained that the second cleansing
+of the heart takes away that evil nature which causes man to want to
+disobey God.
+
+Not long after this talk Bessie had an experience in school that helped
+her to comprehend her mother's words. To be put back in her studies was
+hard, but to have to give up her old teacher, to whom she was strongly
+attached, was harder still. Her regret on the latter account, however,
+was of short duration; for her new teacher was even more lovable than
+the old one, and, best of all, she was a Christian. She and Bessie not
+only got along well, but became warm friends and enjoyed sweet
+fellowship in the Spirit. One day, however, something happened that
+severely tested their love, but, in the end, only deepened it.
+
+Bessie's seatmate, a girl named Nora, about Bessie's own age, was very
+mischievous. She did so many things deserving punishment that the
+teacher was often perplexed to know what course to take with her. Some
+one has said that "misery likes company." This was certainly true of
+Nora. She knew that the teacher and Bessie were good friends, and she
+longed to see Bessie get into trouble and receive some punishment.
+Knowing that Bessie tried hard to obey the rules of the school, Nora saw
+that she should have to lay some cunning plan or she should not realize
+her wish. She began to watch for an opportunity.
+
+A streamlet ran past the schoolhouse. While Bessie and Nora were playing
+near it one day, Bessie fell down in some mud. Just as she fell, the
+school-bell rang and they had to hurry back to their lessons. Fearing
+that some of the mud might have splattered on her face, Bessie asked if
+her face was clean. Nora answered quickly, "Oh yes; do hurry up." Nora
+felt that her chance had come, and she made up her mind to get her
+seatmate into trouble, if possible. Hurrying into the schoolroom, she
+whispered to one of the boys, telling him to ask Bessie as she passed
+what was the matter with her face, but to say nothing more. When Bessie
+came down the aisle, she saw this boy looking at her with an amused
+expression, and gave him close attention. As she passed him, he
+whispered, "Bessie, what is the matter with your face?" and then turned
+quickly away. Fully convinced that her face was dirty, Bessie sat down
+very much ashamed. Nora knew how her seatmate would feel and prepared
+herself for the question that she was sure would be asked. As it was
+time for the writing-lesson, she stuck her finger in inks of different
+colors; and, when Bessie asked where her face was dirty, she quickly
+pointed out the places, each time leaving a large spot of ink. Bessie,
+wholly unconscious of the ink-spots on her face, thought what a dreadful
+sight she must be, and asked permission of the teacher to wash. When the
+teacher turned, she saw, not mud, but ugly ink-spots. Supposing that
+Bessie had put them there, she shook her head. Her surprise was great.
+She felt that she ought to do something about it; but, being undecided,
+she turned away.
+
+Bessie became much worried; for many eyes were turned upon her, and some
+of the pupils were laughing. She wanted to hide, but could not, and kept
+wondering why a little mud should cause so much amusement. One girl,
+Anna, tried secretly to pass her a wet handkerchief, but this Nora
+quickly caught from her and hid. Poor Bessie was now ready to cry, and
+again asked permission to wash her face; but her teacher answered, "No;
+you must go to writing."
+
+Bessie naturally had a high temper and was inclined to be stubborn when
+she felt that she was being imposed upon; but she had always held her
+temper in subjection, as she knew it to be wrong to give way to anger.
+On this occasion, however, it seemed impossible to control herself. When
+the teacher said, "Go to writing," Bessie obeyed; but she was so angry
+that she hardly knew what she was doing. Suddenly she thought, "If I
+daub a lot of ink on my face, perhaps she will let me wash"; and she
+rubbed some on with her finger. But alas! this did not work as she had
+expected. The teacher saw her put it on and concluded that she had put
+the other on also; so she said, "Bessie, you may go and sit in my
+chair." As she said this, all the stubbornness in Bessie's nature arose.
+She did not move; and when the teacher said sternly, "Are you going to
+obey?" she shook her head and caught hold of the seat. At this moment
+Nora whispered, "If that were me, she'd make me go." The teacher heard
+the words and looked first at Nora and then at Bessie. She hesitated for
+a moment, then walked over to Bessie, took her by the shoulders and
+jerked her from the seat, and then dragged her up to the chair and set
+her down, telling her to study. "I have no book," retorted Bessie. The
+teacher ordered one brought, and, leaving her, went to her other duties.
+
+What a moment for Bessie! Too angry to study, she sat there thinking of
+the dreadful scene she had created. Her heart burned with shame. Oh!
+what could she do?
+
+Anna, the girl who had tried to hand her the wet handkerchief, had
+noticed all of Nora's actions and had determined to help Bessie, if
+possible. On pretext of looking up a word in the dictionary, Anna went
+forward, laid a wet rag where Bessie could reach it, and returned to her
+seat. Bessie eagerly took the rag and rubbed her face. She was surprised
+to see the different colors of ink appear upon it. How they came to be
+there she did not know; but she did not think about them long, for
+something far worse began to trouble her. She knew that she had lost the
+grace of God out of her heart. Oh, how wretched she felt! Would God
+forgive her again? Yes; she knew he would; for she had read that, "The
+Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and saveth such as be
+of a contrite spirit." This thought was a great comfort to her. But, oh!
+what about her teacher? How could her teacher ever love and respect her
+again? She would ask her pardon as soon as possible, but would she
+forgive her?
+
+It was not long until the teacher went to her desk for something, but
+she took no notice of Bessie. Beaching out very timidly, Bessie touched
+her and said, "O Miss Harrington, won't you please forgive me?" But the
+teacher pretended not to hear her, and turned quickly away. The next
+thought was, "What will Mama think and say? Oh, if only she did not have
+to know about it!" With these thoughts coursing through her mind, Bessie
+was unable to study; and by the time school closed, she was in great
+distress.
+
+After closing the school, the teacher paid no attention to Bessie for
+some time; but when she had finished her evening duties and all the
+pupils except Nora, Anna, and Bessie had left the building, she turned
+to Bessie, fell upon her knees, and threw both arms around her. Bessie
+sobbed, "Oh, please forgive me! please forgive me!" For some time the
+teacher made no reply, and Nora muttered, "Catch me asking her
+forgiveness!" At last the teacher, looking up through tearful eyes,
+said, "Bessie dear, it is you who must forgive me. I should have been a
+better example to you this afternoon. Let us pray." Then two sad hearts
+were lifted to God in humble, earnest prayer that he would forgive them
+for Jesus' sake. God heard their prayers, gave back the sweet peace that
+they had lost out of their souls, and bound their hearts together in
+Christian love and fellowship.
+
+Nora went her way, provoked with her seatmate and angry because the joke
+had not worked quite as she had expected. Anna, slipping her arm through
+Bessie's walked home with her and told her all that Nora had done.
+Bessie was surprised. She understood why things had taken the course
+they had; but, knowing it was really Satan, who had been trying to
+overthrow her own soul, she did not censure her seatmate.
+
+Her only thought now was of how sad her mother would feel. Bessie
+decided that the occurrence was too dreadful to tell her about and that
+she would keep it a secret. This was her decision until she saw her
+mother coming down the walk to meet her. Having always told her mother
+everything, Bessie did not know how it would seem to keep a secret from
+her; so when they met, she forgot all about her decision and began at
+once to tell her mother all that had happened.
+
+Mrs. Worthington listened very carefully to Bessie's story and then
+said: "Bessie, I am so glad you have told me all this yourself, and have
+held nothing back nor blamed Nora. God will take care of the matter, and
+I believe that your lesson is a lasting one. And now, my child; you can
+see your great need of sanctification. Had that ugliness and
+stubbornness been taken out of your heart, you would have been spared
+much suffering. I trust that you will earnestly seek and obtain this
+grace."
+
+It was well that Bessie told her mother everything, for Nora did all in
+her power to circulate the story and to make it as bad as possible.
+Nora's mother, thinking it best to tell Mrs. Worthington about Bessie's
+misbehavior, made a special call at the Worthington home for that
+purpose. Bessie's mother listened to what her neighbor's story was and
+then smilingly replied, "Yes, I know all about it; Bessie told me before
+she reached home. I am so glad that I have the confidence of my child.
+We are companions; I love her company, and she loves mine." These words
+sounded strange to the visitor. She could not understand. "It seems
+strange," said she, "that Bessie loves to stay at home and to be with
+you so much. Doesn't she ever get lonesome? Nora is restless and tired
+when she has to stay at home, and says I am too old for her."
+
+Ah! here was the secret of the difference between the two girls. One
+mother had allowed her daughter to choose her own company and had not
+inquired into their plays and talks; whereas the other knew the secrets
+of her child's heart and could advise and instruct her in any matter.
+Between Bessie and her mother there was a tie of which Nora and her
+mother knew nothing. "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when
+he is old he will not depart from it." Prov. 22:6.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+
+TEMPTATIONS.
+
+At Christmas time Bessie received the following letter from one of her
+friends:
+
+     Dear Bessie:
+
+     I have long wondered what to send you as a Christmas gift,
+     and it seemed a hard problem to solve. I fear you will
+     wonder at what I am sending; but, knowing that you are
+     nearly thirteen years old and must be growing very fast, I
+     have decided to send you a corset. I hope you will like and
+     appreciate it enough to wear it.
+
+     Lovingly your friend,
+
+     Lizzie.
+
+On receiving the package, Bessie looked at the corset and said, "Mama,
+shall I wear it?"
+
+Mrs. Worthington looked anxiously at her daughter; for she knew that
+Bessie would have strong temptations along this line, as she did not
+have a pretty form, and was growing rapidly. She had hoped, however,
+that the subject would not be mentioned for some time. Silently she
+breathed a little prayer for wisdom to answer the question, and then
+said:
+
+"Bessie, God used great wisdom in forming your body. He knew just what
+shape it would have to be in order to perform its natural functions. Do
+you think it would be proper to try to change it? Do you wonder why
+something snug around your waist could be harmful? Listen, dear, and I
+will tell you. Let us take the corset and examine it. It certainly looks
+very innocent and pretty, but just see how stiff it is. These steel ribs
+and this whalebone make it more like a piece of harness than anything
+else I can think of. When worn about the waist, it produces pressure
+upon the vital organs and thus deforms the body. These long strings at
+the back are often drawn so tightly as to cause the misplacement and
+derangement of those organs whose functions are most necessary to health
+and happiness. As a consequence, many a woman has to suffer long years
+of torture.
+
+"Many women say they don't wear the corset tight, and think, therefore,
+that no harm results; but, let one of them put a snug-fitting bandage on
+any other part of the body, and she will see how quickly the muscles of
+that part will weaken and decrease in size. Should a young woman who has
+never worn a corset attempt to wear one about her waist as loosely as
+they are ever worn, she would, if honest with herself, cast it aside as
+an abominable thing.
+
+"The reason why Lizzie wants you to begin wearing a corset while you're
+young is that, if you'll bind your waist before you've reached your full
+growth, your waist will never attain the size it would have attained
+under natural conditions. In other words, you would be deformed."
+
+"I don't think I shall ever wear it, Mama, if that's the effect it has
+upon the body. If God takes such particular care of us that he numbers
+our very hairs, he must be very much grieved to see any one put a corset
+about her waist."
+
+"I'm glad for your decision, my child, but you'll soon meet greater
+temptations. Some mothers don't think it worth while to warn their girls
+of the dangers that threaten them in regard to love and marriage; but I
+want to see you, Bessie, fully prepared, so that you may safely pass
+this dangerous period.
+
+"Most girls at your age have some strange idea regarding love. In the
+schoolroom, perhaps, a girl notices some particular boy who has a
+winning way. At first she simply thinks he is nice; is glad to see him
+promoted, receive honor, etc. Gradually her mind becomes filled with
+queries concerning his opinion of her. She dares not own that she loves
+to appear well in his eyes, but it is true nevertheless. During his
+absence she misses him, and upon his return her heart beats with
+emotion. If he pays her little attentions, she dwells upon them until
+she becomes eager for them. Her playmates notice a change in her, for
+she can no longer hide her feelings. She blushes when mention is made
+of her preference for him. The couple seek to be together as much as
+possible, and are soon meeting together secretly. When reproved, they
+may promise not to let the thing happen again, only to repeat it in a
+short time. The secrecy of these meetings make them more enjoyable, and
+their length and frequency are unconsciously increased.
+
+"Satan, who is never asleep upon such occasions, makes reproof his
+companion to push them forward. Friendly warnings are unheeded; and if
+force be used to prevent the meetings, the couple may think of eloping.
+They may not have thought of marriage until this time; but when the girl
+realizes what she has done, she consents to the hasty marriage. Such
+marriages, Bessie, seldom result happily.
+
+"The place to stop was at the beginning. She should have gained control
+of her wandering affections. Young girls who lavish their love upon boys
+of their own age or older lose relish for other things, and their minds
+become dwarfed and weakened by being taxed with thoughts that are not
+fit for them to consider at so early an age.
+
+"It is all right to form in your mind an ideal for your affections, if
+you don't have in mind some particular person; but your common sense
+should be your guide. Two rowboats passing each other upon the water are
+all right as long as they are far enough apart; but let these boats
+drift or be guided too close together, and there is great danger of a
+collision. Your affections are to you what the rudder is to the boat,
+and reason is your pilot. They will guide you aright if you will let
+them."
+
+"Mama," said Bessie, "there's a girl in our school, only a few months
+older than I, that says she is to be married in a short time. The man
+she's to marry is nearly twice as old as she is, too. We told her that
+she ought to wait until she wore long dresses before she talked about
+getting married. Don't you think that is dreadful?"
+
+"Yes, dear, it is. No girl should ever be married while she is so
+young."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+
+ANSWERS TO PRAYER.
+
+During the summer Bessie's cousin John and a boy friend came to visit
+her. They spent many pleasant hours on the lake. One day while they were
+about two miles from home, a fierce storm arose. They noticed the sky
+growing dark and tried very hard to reach home; but, when still some
+distance from the shore, they could see that instead of making any
+headway they were drifting before the wind.
+
+It was a serious moment. As the great waves dashed up over them, each
+adding to the amount of water in the boat, Bessie looked first at her
+cousin toiling away at the oars, the great drops of perspiration
+coursing down his face, then at their friend nearly wild with terror,
+and then at the western sky. "John," said she to her cousin, "I believe
+that's rain coming toward us." Until then the boy, who was a little
+older than Bessie, had been brave; but as he turned to look, his face
+blanched with terror, and he said, "Bessie, if that is rain, it will
+certainly sink our boat; for, see, it is nearly half full of water now."
+
+The situation was certainly critical, but Bessie felt that it was not
+the time to despair. She remembered that in olden times Jesus had calmed
+the sea. Believing that he could still do the same, she prayed for help
+from heaven. Then, encouraging her cousin to do his best, she, assisted
+by their friend, began to bale out the water as rapidly as they could.
+In a few moments the great drops of rain were dashing down upon them.
+Without speaking, all kept at their work for what seemed to them an
+hour, but which was really but a short time. Suddenly it ceased raining;
+and, looking about them, they saw that the lake was perfectly
+quiet--not a ripple could be seen. With trembling voice Bessie said,
+"John, God must have sent the rain to quiet the water, for I asked him
+to help us." It was a very wet but thankful crowd that reached home that
+night.
+
+In the spring that Bessie was fourteen years old, her father sold the
+beautiful home where she had spent so many happy days, and bought a
+tract of land in a dense wood farther up the lake. On account of the
+dense forest, the place appeared very dismal. As the purchaser of their
+old home wanted possession as soon as possible, Mr. Worthington had time
+to build only a barn before removing his family. In this building they
+lived during the first summer. Though these circumstances were
+discouraging, the Worthingtons tried hard to be brave. By fall a house
+was ready for them.
+
+Many good things were lacking in this new forest home; but God knew
+this, and he put it into the hearts of friends and neighbors to supply
+the family with fruit and vegetables and also chickens. So generously
+were these supplied that there was no lack.
+
+During the winter following much wood was cut, hauled, and piled out
+along the roadside in front of the house; but still there was standing
+timber nearly everywhere one might look, and to the south and west it
+extended for many miles.
+
+The next summer Bessie learned how dangerous an enemy a large forest
+could become. There was so little rain during the hot months that things
+became dry and brittle. One day she heard the cry of "Fire! Fire!"
+Looking away to the southwest, she beheld a sight that made her feel
+faint with fear. The woods were ablaze, and the fire was coming directly
+toward her home.
+
+Her father came to her, explained their danger, told her to warn her
+mother and then to do all she could to put out any sparks that might
+fall around the woodpiles, house, or barn. This said, he hastened to
+join the men in their desperate battle with the fire. When Bessie
+entered the house, she saw her mother weeping over her little baby, who
+had been born during the winter months and who had known nothing but
+sickness and suffering. When Mrs. Worthington heard the news, she
+continued to weep, and said, "Well, dear, do all you can to put out the
+sparks; for I think your little brother is dying, and I can not leave
+him."
+
+By much hard work, the fire was held in check until evening. Bessie made
+her rounds with a pail of water and a dipper until her eyes became so
+painful on account of the smoke and heat that she was forced to lie down
+on the ground until they quit hurting. As soon as possible, however, she
+returned to her task, informing her mother frequently of the progress of
+the fire.
+
+At last word came that nothing more could be done; that the house could
+not be saved. Seeing that further effort was useless and that each
+moment increased the danger of their own lives, the men left off
+fighting the fire, in order to save themselves and to help, if possible,
+the Worthington family. They soon reached the house. The next question
+was, where to go. The lake seemed to be the nearest place of safety.
+Confusion was everywhere, but through it all Mrs. Worthington sat
+quietly holding her dying baby.
+
+"O Mama," said Bessie, "aren't you going with the rest?"
+
+"No," answered her mother positively; "I shall remain right here with my
+dying child. I can not move him now and add to his suffering. I know
+that God can take care of me here as well as anywhere else. Why, Bessie,
+where is your faith? God can yet send rain and put out the fire."
+
+"Oh! but if God doesn't send rain, you will burn up; for the fire is
+almost here," cried Bessie. "Do come as far from the house as you can,
+won't you?"
+
+"No, Bessie, I told you, no. I shall sit just where I am," answered Mrs.
+Worthington; and Bessie knew that it would be useless to press the
+matter further.
+
+With throbbing heart Bessie ran to her room, which was already getting
+hot from the fire: she fell upon her knees by the window where she could
+see the flames leaping from tree to tree, and began to call mightily
+upon God. "O God!" she prayed, "do send rain or change the wind." After
+repeating this prayer several times, she noticed some large drops of
+water upon the window pane. She knew what it meant: once before God had
+sent rain to help her in time of danger. Hastening down stairs, she
+said, "Mama, it's raining." "Thank God!" said Mrs. Worthington, "I knew
+he wouldn't let baby and me burn up."
+
+By that time the rain was pouring down; the wind had ceased; and the
+danger was over. The rain did not put out the fire, but so checked it
+that, by hard work, it could be kept under control until it died out.
+
+Little Clement lived only a short time after the fire; but just before
+he died, he looked into his weeping mother's face and smiled three
+times. As he had never smiled before, Mrs. Worthington always thought
+that God took that way to encourage her heart.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+
+LOST IN THE WOODS.
+
+As Leroy was too young to drive the cows home in the evening, Bessie
+enjoyed many a long walk in search of them. One evening she had some
+difficulty in finding them. It was one of those evenings when everything
+is quiet and sound travels a long distance. After listening carefully
+for the tinkling of the cow-bells, Bessie was bewildered, for she could
+seemingly hear them in every direction. At last, thinking she had
+located the sound, she set out in that direction. When she had walked
+about two miles, she stopped to listen again. The bells were still
+tinkling, but they seemed to be just as far away. She knew, though, that
+the cows sometimes went a long distance. She had been following the
+road, but thinking the sound came from the woods, she started off in
+that direction. She saw that the sun was just going down behind the
+trees; that she was on an unfamiliar path, and was getting farther and
+farther from home. But she must get the cows, and on she went, stopping
+now and then to locate the sound of the bells.
+
+She suddenly found herself standing upon a point of land where a deep,
+wide ravine extended on either side. The distance across the ravine she
+could not see on account of the shadow and the trees. What should she
+do? A few minutes previously she had thought about its being late, but
+had hoped to find the cows and to make them guide her home. This hope
+failing, she did not know what to do. The bells were still tinkling
+ahead of her; but she did not dare to try to cross the ravine in the
+darkness, now fast gathering around her, and how could she return
+through those dense woods! She thought of calling for help, but as
+quickly realized how useless the effort would be, since there were no
+houses near.
+
+As she stood wondering what to do, these words from a psalm she had
+committed to memory a short time before, came to her mind: "If I say,
+Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about
+me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the
+day; the darkness and the light are both alike to thee." Two more
+precious promises came to her mind: "I will guide thee with mine eye"
+and "He leadeth me beside still waters." Oh, what encouragement those
+words were to Bessie! Surely God would guide her home. With a thankful
+heart, Bessie started to return. As she had passed through several
+clearings in her search for the cows, she had no little difficulty in
+finding her way; but the moon rose early and gave her considerable
+light, and as she neared home, she began to recognize some familiar
+objects.
+
+But, in the meantime, how were her parents feeling? The cows returned
+early and were milked. Mrs. Worthington wondered why Bessie did not come
+with them, but thought she might have been delayed and would come soon.
+She prepared supper; but when she got it ready, Bessie was still absent.
+
+"What can be keeping Bessie tonight?" Mrs. Worthington said anxiously to
+her husband. "She should have come home an hour ago."
+
+"Oh, I suppose she has stopped somewhere to play," said Mr. Worthington
+carelessly.
+
+"No; I don't think so," replied his wife. "Bessie always tries to be
+prompt, and I'm afraid something has happened. If she doesn't come soon,
+you had better go to look for her."
+
+"Well, wait until dark," said Mr. Worthington; "and, if she isn't here
+then, I'll get some men and we'll search in different directions. Did
+you notice which way she went!"
+
+"No," answered his wife, "but I think she went east."
+
+At dark Mr. Worthington started out with the searching party. Mrs.
+Worthington tried not to worry; but when nine o'clock passed and
+half-past nine came, she felt a great anxiety creeping into her heart.
+Many times she offered an earnest prayer for Bessie's protection. After
+putting Leroy to bed she stationed herself in front of the house to
+watch.
+
+About ten o'clock some one returned to say that he could find no trace
+of Bessie.
+
+With straining eyes, Mrs. Worthington looked in the direction in which
+Bessie had gone, and at last thought that she could see some one
+approaching. As the figure drew nearer, she could see that it was her
+child, and with a glad cry ran to meet her. "O Bessie," cried the
+mother, "what has happened to detain you? Your father and a company of
+men are out searching the woods for you. Dear child, where have you
+been?"
+
+Bessie was very tired and hungry; but she related all that had happened
+and said: "I'm sorry I couldn't go farther; for I believe the cows were
+just a short distance beyond the point where I turned back. But I did
+not dare to cross the swampy place and go into the woods on the other
+side."
+
+"Why, the cows have been home a long, long time, Bessie; and that is
+what had made your delay seem so strange," said her mother. "But were
+you not afraid, dear, when you found that you were so far from home!"
+
+Bessie explained how she had felt and how the Lord had encouraged her
+and helped her to be brave.
+
+"What time was that?" asked her mother; and when she learned, she said,
+"Bessie, that was when I was so earnestly praying for you. Surely our
+God is a mighty God and one who is ever faithful."
+
+When the searching party returned, they were all glad to know that
+Bessie was safe at home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+
+NOVEL-READING.
+
+As Bessie approached her sixteenth year, Mrs. Worthington became very
+anxious about her. The mother thought that she could notice a change in
+her daughter's actions and disposition. Instead of being confiding and
+happy, she seemed listless, forgetful, and nervous. At first the mother
+could not understand this change; but by close observation she found
+that her daughter was indulging in light reading.
+
+Some magazines and weekly papers containing continued love-stories had
+found their way into the Worthington home. At first they were not
+attractive to Bessie. She would merely glance through the pages; but she
+gradually came to overlook the good, substantial reading and to enjoy
+the part that stimulated the romantic and imaginative part of her
+nature. The effect upon her mental and moral powers was much the same
+as that produced upon the digestive organs by rich and stimulating
+foods. Her mind was thus weakened and robbed of its relish for wholesome
+reading. She was ever looking forward for something to excite or satisfy
+her abnormal desire for the romantic or the dreadful.
+
+As soon as Mrs. Worthington realized her daughter's danger, she sought
+an opportunity to instruct her on the dangers of novel-reading. "Some
+effects of novel-reading," said she, "are worse even than those produced
+by dancing. Many novels are hurtful because of the many false ideas
+interwoven in the stories. Some novels attract the pure-minded by their
+morality; but it is unsafe to read them, for the reason I have already
+given you, and because, as with any bad habit, the exciting influences
+must be constantly increased. In this way some persons are deceived and
+drawn into many of Satan's snares.
+
+"In most novels there is much that is good and true; but the immoral,
+the worldly, and the untrue are so interwoven with it that the reader
+unconsciously finds himself taking pleasure in thoughts which, before he
+began reading novels, would have been disgusting. In this way the
+reader's sense of right is lowered and an appetite created--an appetite
+that can not be satisfied; the more it is fed, the more depraved and
+exacting it becomes. Gradually the desire for the romantic increases
+until the novel-reader longs to have a romance of her own. Her sense of
+duty is so blunted and her better judgment so blinded that she often
+agrees to a secret marriage with some one who is wholly unfit to be her
+life companion. It is in this way that many a girl has been deceived and
+led into sin. Many times, too, habits have been formed, from which
+nothing but the grace of God could deliver. In looking back over a
+wasted life, many a person can see that his or her downfall had its
+origin in the first novel.
+
+"My dear child, there are many good books that you will find both
+helpful and interesting, but the Bible should be the pattern of your
+life. Let it be the principal food for your mind and soul. Your time all
+belongs to God, and you should waste none of it in reading unwholesome
+literature."
+
+As Mrs. Worthington finished speaking, she was glad to see a changed
+look in Bessie's face. She knew that God was talking to her daughter;
+and as she arose to go, she said: "Bessie, do not forget from whom you
+may expect strength. I am praying that God will entirely take away the
+unnatural appetite which you have been fostering."
+
+It was not long until Bessie rejoiced in full deliverance from her taste
+for novel-reading, and her interest in her mother's talks returned. As
+they read the Bible together and praised God for the precious truths it
+contained, cherishing them within their hearts as priceless treasures,
+Bessie's understanding seemed to open, and she was able to comprehend
+many of the deep truths of God's Word. The reading of God's Word gave
+her such unbounding joy, such complete spiritual happiness, that nothing
+could compare with it. Its truths, so simple and yet so grand, were at
+once a guide and a reproof to keep her feet from straying from the
+narrow way.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+
+GLAD TIDINGS.
+
+In a small house about two miles from Bessie's home lived a very old
+lady. She loved the Lord and enjoyed telling of his goodness and of his
+dealings with her. Bessie, who was now about sixteen years of age,
+enjoyed these talks very much.
+
+One day while Bessie and her mother were visiting this aged saint, she
+brought forth a much-worn paper and handed it to Mrs. Worthington,
+saying, "My daughter sent me this paper. You may take it home, if you
+like," she continued; "but I must ask you to return it, as my daughter
+wants it again." As Mrs. Worthington took the paper, Bessie saw at the
+top of the page, in large letters, "The Gospel Trumpet." After reading a
+few minutes Mrs. Worthington exclaimed: "This paper is certainly the
+work of a people who understand the plan of salvation. Things are fully
+explained here that have been plain to me for years--things that I
+dared not mention publicly lest I be thought fanatical."
+
+On their return home Mrs. Worthington said: "It must have been in answer
+to prayer that Sister Moore let me see that paper. I have prayed for
+many years that God would help me to find a people who were not afraid
+to preach his whole Word. I believe we have found them. Who knows but
+this is God's way of starting a series of meetings here. Oh, the
+wonderful God we serve! I shall subscribe for the paper at once and also
+send my poem on sectism to see if they will publish it." The
+subscription was sent, and the poem soon appeared in the paper.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was truly thankful to find that God had others in the
+world who were willing to teach the whole Bible without construing any
+part to suit their own ideas.
+
+It was not long until a testimony appeared from a minister living a few
+miles away; and, agreeably with Mrs. Worthington's request, a series of
+meetings was started in the neighborhood.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+
+THE MEETINGS.
+
+The news of the good meetings spread rapidly, and the attendance
+constantly increased. The gospel as preached was a new message to the
+people, and yet it was the very same that Jesus and his disciples
+taught. Every point of doctrine presented had a "thus saith the Lord" to
+confirm it.
+
+Many saw that the Bible had been misunderstood and had been misconstrued
+by mankind to prove minor points, while the deep and vital truths had
+been so covered over with prejudice and unbelief that the majority of
+the people were blind to the true meaning of the Word; and that, in
+their confusion, each had gone to the denomination that seemed most
+nearly to correspond to his clouded views. It was also clearly shown
+that there is no way to heaven except the straight and narrow way that
+Jesus taught, and that God's Word is the only true measure of a
+Christian experience.
+
+Mrs. Worthington felt now that her cup of joy was full since she could
+hear the way of salvation and the true church explained from the pulpit
+just as God had revealed them to her. She was also glad that Bessie, who
+was now old enough to understand deep spiritual truths for herself, was
+in perfect harmony and fellowship with her.
+
+About forty souls were saved in the meetings; some gained the experience
+of sanctification; and the Spirit of the Lord worked mightily upon the
+hearts of many others.
+
+Oh, the deep and wonderful love of God! Oh, the richness and fulness of
+his grace! How glorious Bessie now found her walk with God! How
+precious to commune with him and feel that she was growing deeper into
+his love! Truly it was a taste of heaven!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+
+BESSIE SEES HER DUTY.
+
+Among those converted in the meetings was a girl a little younger than
+Bessie. Her name was Cora. Being an orphan and living in the home of an
+infidel uncle, where she had no one to understand or sympathize with her
+views, she often sought Bessie for counsel and advice. The uncle did not
+oppose his niece, but others in his family did.
+
+As time went on, the two girls became anxious to be doing something for
+the Lord. While they were pondering over the matter, a company of
+ministers came to the place to hold another series of meetings. From
+them the girls learned that _The Gospel Trumpet_ was published by
+consecrated labor, that the workers received no stated salary, but that
+they trusted the Lord for their food and clothing.
+
+It seemed a strange story to the girls, but Cora felt that she should
+like to go and help in the work. Though her uncle was not pleased with
+her plan, yet finally, after he had investigated and had found the place
+respectable, he gave his consent. It was several months, however, before
+she expected to leave. Toward the close of this time Bessie began to
+feel some anxiety for her friend, and one day said to her, "Cora, do you
+really want to go to _The Gospel Trumpet_ office to work? Now, if you
+don't want to go, God will not be pleased with your service." "Bessie, I
+have lost all desire to go," Cora answered. "It seems to me that God is
+calling you instead of me. You could be a much greater help than I,
+because you have known and understood this truth all your life."
+
+If Bessie had received a severe blow, it could not have hurt her more.
+Her precious mother! How could she leave her! Many of her cherished
+hopes for the future arose before me. Her plan, to do all she could for
+her mother in her declining years, came up before her; and as she
+thought of it, she became very sad. When the two girls parted at the
+door, Bessie's heart was very heavy; and when she was at last alone, she
+wept bitterly. She remembered that she had consecrated to do anything
+the Lord might require of her, but she did not see how she could do
+this. For many days Bessie bore this heavy burden; and, not being
+strong, she began to fail in health. From appearances, she had a
+malignant form of quick consumption. The course of the disease was
+rapid, and in a few weeks she was not only confined to her bed, but
+seemingly very near death. Mr. Worthington desired to consult a
+physician, but reluctantly heeded to Bessie's earnest entreaties to let
+her trust the Lord. She said to her father, "I know that God would heal
+me, if for the best; and, if not, I would rather die." And she added
+mentally, "I would rather die than to leave home."
+
+Bessie at last became so low that she could not be left alone night or
+day. As her mother sat beside her one day, holding her hand, she said:
+"I believe, dear, that God wants to heal you and use you for himself. I
+feel like asking our elder, Sister Smith, to come and anoint you with
+oil according to Jas. 5:14, 15. I am sure God will heal you."
+
+Sister Smith was brought as soon as possible; but, to Mrs. Worthington's
+surprise, she did not offer to anoint Bessie until the next day. She
+said: "I can not understand this case. There is something here that
+seems very strange. Bessie appears to be perfectly resigned to die, but
+she only answers yes or no to my questions. I shall talk to her again."
+Returning to the bedside, she said, "My dear, if God heals you, are you
+willing to leave your father, mother, and home to preach the
+gospel"--but she got no farther. Bessie, with all the emphasis she
+could command in her weak state, interrupted, "No; I will never preach."
+
+"Ah! there is the point in your consecration that you have not reached,"
+replied Sister Smith. "You must be willing to do anything that will
+bring the most honor to God's name, and to work where he can get the
+most glory out of your service. It may be the Lord will never require
+you to preach; but he wants the willingness on your part, just as much
+as if he wanted to make a minister of you."
+
+It was some time before Bessie could answer; but when she did, it was to
+say that she would do anything, only that she must know that it was God
+who required it.
+
+"God will make you to know that," said Sister Smith; "and now I feel
+that everything is out of the way, and we can ask God to heal you."
+
+As she applied the oil and called earnestly upon God, there seemed to be
+a heavenly atmosphere filling the room. Bessie felt a soothing
+sensation passing through her body; and when the prayer was ended, she
+felt perfectly well, though exceedingly weak. Her strength soon
+returned, however, and it was not long until the Lord told her plainly
+that he wanted her at _The Gospel Trumpet_ office. She remembered her
+consecration and felt willing in her heart to obey; but she shrank from
+telling her parents. For two weeks she endured severe mental suffering.
+She tried to gain sufficient courage to speak to her mother about the
+call, but her tongue refused to form the words. One day while she and
+her mother were in the cosy sitting-room, Mrs. Worthington said,
+"Bessie, I believe that God wants you at _The Gospel Trumpet_ office and
+that he has used Cora's plan and your sickness to show you your duty."
+Looking up through eyes filled with tears, Bessie related all that God
+had revealed to her. A great calm then came into her soul.
+
+But the test was not entirely over. Mr. Worthington must be told,
+and--would he be willing? Embracing the first opportunity, Bessie told
+him her plans and begged his approval upon them; but his reply nearly
+crushed her.
+
+"Bessie," said her father, "if you must leave us, you may go; but I have
+one thing to say and I mean it. If you go, you can never return; for
+your going is heartless indeed. I can not see why you should choose to
+go from your comfortable home and those who love you so dearly, and
+leave your mother, who so much needs your help."
+
+"Father, Father!" exclaimed Bessie, "Oh, don't talk that way! You know
+how much I love you all. You know I never wanted to leave home before;
+and if you won't let me return, what shall I do?"
+
+As she stood there before her father almost broken-hearted, a sweet
+voice whispered, "I will be with thee; be not afraid." The words sounded
+like music in her soul and reminded her of her recent decision to obey
+the Lord at any cost; and she said quietly:
+
+"Well, Father, if you refuse to let me return home, it will have to be
+that way; but I must obey the Lord, and he has called me into his
+service"
+
+"Very well," he answered, "but remember my words," and he left her.
+
+Seeking her mother, Bessie told her of the interview and of her father's
+refusal to allow her to return home. For a moment they stood looking at
+one another; and then, with great tears filling her eyes, her mother
+said:
+
+"Remember the words of Jesus, 'There is no man that hath left house, or
+parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's
+sake, who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in
+the world to come life everlasting.' Dear, child, I know your dutiful
+nature, and how you long to obey your parents; but the Bible says to
+obey them in the Lord. When you have to choose whom you will serve, God
+or your parents, you must choose the Lord."
+
+"I will obey God," said Bessie quietly; and she began at once to prepare
+to leave home.
+
+When all was ready and the morning of departure had come, Mr.
+Worthington went out to prepare to take his daughter to the train. He
+had been very silent all the morning, but Bessie's heart was so full
+that she had taken little notice of his behavior. Oh, how she longed for
+his consent for her to return! Her mother gave her every encouraging
+word possible. At last they looked out and saw that the horse was ready.
+As Bessie picked up her last bundle, the door opened, and her father,
+stepping in quickly, caught her in his arms. "O my child," he sobbed,
+"will you forgive me and come back as soon as the Lord will let you? I
+didn't mean what I said; but it is so hard to give you up. If you need
+anything, write to me at once and let me know about it, won't you?" and
+he tenderly kissed her. Bessie's heart was filled with joy, and she
+said that he could expect her home just as soon as the Lord would let
+her come.
+
+"Read 1 Cor. 10:13 and Jas. 1:12 just as soon as you have time, dear,"
+whispered Mrs. Worthington in her daughter's ear as she kissed her again
+before she jumped into the buggy beside her father. Then they drove away
+from the home and the mother that were so dear to Bessie's heart.
+
+Very few words were spoken on the way to town, and after a long ride
+Bessie found herself on the train. It all seemed like a terrible dream;
+but there was a sweet peace and quietness in her soul, and her father's
+loving words rang again and again in her ears.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+
+REVERIE.
+
+In the days that followed Bessie's arrival at the _Trumpet_ office, she
+found many ways in which she could help spread the gospel. She found,
+too, that she could preach in a way that was not at all distasteful to
+her; for she could set up many lines of type to be used in printing the
+gospel message in the _Trumpet_, which was carrying light and truth into
+many homes and preaching to hungry souls. But oh, how often she thought
+of the dear ones at home and of how they were missing her!
+
+One evening, when she sought her room and sat down beside the window, as
+she had so often done at home, she began to review her life. As the soft
+shadows gathered slowly about her, she seemed to be at home again close
+beside her mother's knee, listening to her tender, loving words of
+sympathy and advice. Bessie could now see what they had been worth to
+her. They not only had prepared her for a common sphere in life, but had
+given her a thorough understanding of God's great plan of salvation. As
+she recalled her mother's prayers and talks, she realized that, through
+them, she had many times escaped what other girls had ignorantly
+blundered into, and had been spared a great many of the bitter sorrows
+that come into the lives of girls not taught at their mother's knee. In
+her thankfulness, she offered a fervent prayer to her heavenly Father
+that many more earnest, noble, and prayerful mothers might be found to
+guide their children through the critical period of childhood.
+
+After three months Bessie returned home for a short visit with her
+parents. Upon her arrival she not only found a loving and tender
+welcome, but also learned that both her parents had accepted her call as
+from God. After a happy visit of two weeks she returned to her work.
+With the blessing of God upon her labors, we shall here bid her
+good-by.
+
+In conclusion, we wish to say that what she became was principally in
+answer to her faithful mother's prayers. Had she been left--as many
+girls are--without a mother's tender love and confidence, mingled with
+many earnest prayers, she would have fallen into temptations that she
+never knew. She had fully proved the worth of a praying mother.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+
+A PLEA TO MOTHERS.
+
+Home as God intended it is built upon the corner-stone of virtue and
+prayer. It makes no difference how beautiful the house nor how grand its
+contents, if the mother is a woman who does not care for God or virtue,
+the corner-stone of that home is lacking. Such a home can not stand when
+trial and temptation enter.
+
+A stream never rises above its source, nor a home above the ideals of
+its founders. No matter how humble the home, do not belittle its
+possibilities. Anything so sacred as home can command heaven's choicest
+and best blessings. The humblest cabin may contain that element which
+makes home the shrine of happiness and the temple of peace, and will
+cause it to send forth saints and heroes.
+
+Oh that parents, especially mothers, could realize their influence in
+the home, their power to direct the young minds around them into the
+proper channel! Let us so educate and train the children that they will
+be able to get the greatest good from their natural endowment and that
+they may use it in such a manner as will bring the most glory to God. So
+train them and so live before them in the home that in after-years they
+will say with pleasure: "This precept was always taught me by my
+parents. Father and Mother's holy example has been a priceless
+birthright to me."
+
+This is true parenthood. It should be the ideal in every home. By this I
+mean parents who realize their responsibility and have their children's
+best interest at heart; parents who will sacrifice any pleasure of their
+own for the benefit and happiness of their little ones; parents who will
+not only bid their children a hearty welcome into the world, but will
+care for their future from that moment, and who have the love and
+respect of their entire household.
+
+You may say that parents like these are few and hard to find. True, but
+it is equally so that, with proper knowledge and understanding, many
+would approach this standard. Perhaps some have allowed years to slip
+carelessly by and their darlings to pass seemingly beyond their control.
+To such I would say, It is never too late to pray.
+
+Observe the wayward boy whose chief inheritance is a wild, wilful
+nature. He is nearing his fourteenth birthday. Having been allowed to
+have his own way while small, he has cultivated an ungovernable desire
+to do as he pleases. Let the mother of that boy cease her old habit of
+saying, "I don't know what will become of that boy! I don't understand
+how he can treat me so rudely. I've done all I can, and he just grows
+worse," and take a more rational method. Have you gone to that boy and
+told him the sweet, simple story of Jesus and why he came from his
+beautiful home; that a part of his mission was to teach you how to make
+your home after the pattern of his heavenly home; that his heart is
+touched with compassion when he beholds any one in trouble; that he is
+grieved because you have made a mistake; but that you are sorry and are
+decided to do your duty? Have you told the boy all that? Have you knelt
+beside his bed at night with your tear-dimmed eyes pressed upon his
+hand, and told him the great dangers that are before him, even
+surrounding him, and informed him how to avoid them? Have you told him
+that he is at the most critical time in his life, that a mistake now
+will mean a life of suffering for both him and you, and that he can with
+you begin over and remove some of his past mistakes? Have you talked
+thus to your boy? If not, why not? It is your privilege as well as your
+duty.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+
+PARENTAL DUTY.
+
+The first duty of father and mother to their child is to see that they
+are a unit on family government. Second, they must study themselves and
+their failures, trying to make the weak places strong. Third, study the
+disposition of the child, gain an understanding of its inner life, and
+find out what pleases and displeases it; and, while cultivating the
+good, hold in check the bad. A mother should understand her children
+better than any one else. If she is a thoughtful mother, she knows not
+only the surroundings of her children, but many of the impressions that
+she has stamped upon their undeveloped minds.
+
+Children are not putty that can be moulded into any form to suit our
+fancy, but there is a method by which we can fashion their young lives.
+Much patience, devotion to the child, and fervent prayer will be
+needful to accomplish anything worth while.
+
+Every parent should see that their attitude toward their children is
+what it should be. Consider their feelings and show them respect,
+remembering that they have rights upon which you must not intrude; but
+never loosen the reigns of home government. Make any rules that you
+think practicable and necessary; explain each rule carefully to your
+child, giving your reason for making it, and then demand obedience.
+Never, unless for some special reason, ignore any good rule. Should your
+child happen to break one of these rules, do not punish without first
+finding out the cause. He may not have understood your meaning, or he
+may have forgotten. Take him quietly aside; and, after finding out why
+he has disobeyed, gently tell him again your reasons for making the
+rules and the necessity of his obedience. You might have to do this
+several times, but do not excuse him too long. When it is necessary to
+punish, ask for wisdom from above, and then punish in a way that he will
+understand you and remember the punishment. When you make a statement,
+stand by it, if possible, unless you see error in it. If such be the
+case, confess your fault. If your child does not show you due respect
+and obedience, there is a cause for it, and it is your duty to find out
+what that cause is.
+
+All children have to contend with bad qualities that have been
+inherited. Do not flatter yourself that because the child is yours it
+will escape temptation; for all must be tempted, if they would be
+strong. Teach your children, according to their ability to comprehend,
+all that they should know to be able to shun evil. Do not think that
+because your child has inherited some moral weakness, you are helpless
+to teach him to overcome it. You can explain to him his danger and tell
+him what yielding to the temptations that come to him because of this
+weakness will lead to. Point out the effect of this sin upon the one
+from whom it was inherited. Tell the child that the only chance to
+overcome this inherited tendency will be by constantly avoiding those
+things that will lead to temptation. You may find the task difficult and
+you may sometimes feel disheartened, but you must put that wayward child
+of yours right, if possible, or God will hold you accountable. Perhaps
+the inherited sin may lie at your own door. If it does, you will
+understand better how to help him from under its power.
+
+In the public school, on the street, and in his various associations,
+your child will be exposed to the evil of hearing impure language from
+vile lips; and if he be not warned, who can blame him for listening?
+Your home teaching must overbalance all that he hears outside.
+
+Should some question concerning the mysteries of his own body or of his
+own origin be aroused in his mind by impure stories or by any other
+cause, you must at once arise to meet the difficulty before harm is
+done that will be very difficult to overcome. But some mother will say:
+"I do not know what answer to make my child when he asks questions of
+such a delicate nature. Would it not be best to leave his mind free from
+these ideas until he is older?" Doubtless it would, if the child would
+be contented to wait; but when he has learned enough to ask the
+question, he is able to tell whether you speak the truth when you say
+you do not know, and he will not be satisfied by the flimsy pretest,
+"Oh, run away and don't bother me; I'm too busy."
+
+Above all else, keep the confidence of your child, so that he will come
+to you with every trouble of life. Confidence of children in their
+parents is a gift from God. All children have it at first. See the
+tottering baby cling to its mother for support; watch it run to her when
+it is frightened. Can it not have the same confidence when it is older?
+I answer from experience that it can and should. Truth inspires trust
+in your child. If you do not think it best to answer all his questions
+fully at the time when he asks them, tell him at least enough to satisfy
+his curiosity, and promise him that, if this remains a secret between
+you and him, he may come to you whenever he wants more information. Do
+not be afraid of having secrets with your child. The matter may be
+trifling, but the fact that he is helping you to keep secrets will teach
+him to value his word and will increase his confidence in you. On the
+other hand, if you tell him an untruth, do not think that he will come
+to you again. No, he will doubtless go to some friend who he thinks will
+tell him, and thus get his young mind tainted with impure thoughts. And
+little better in results than telling an untruth is putting the child
+off till some future time. These questions must be met when they arrive.
+
+You may say, "I don't know how much to tell at any one time." Wisdom is
+necessary here. No more should be told than will satisfy the present
+curiosity of the child. A few questions on your part will readily
+discover what information he has gained and how much he wishes to know.
+
+A boy of scarce six summers once came to his mother with a question of
+life. The mother was shocked; but, offering an earnest prayer for
+wisdom, she questioned the child and found that he had heard remarks
+made by older boys. As his mind was developed enough to comprehend part
+of their conversation, his curiosity was aroused. Having perfect
+confidence in his mother, he had sought her for an explanation of the
+points that perplexed him. As simply as possible, that mother gave the
+information, ending with the words, "Now, darling, this is to be a
+perfect secret between us; and when you are old enough, I will tell you
+more." Years passed by until the boy was in his eleventh year; then he
+once more went to his mother for information. "Mama," he began, "do you
+remember the time you told me a secret?" She answered that she did, and
+he continued: "Well, I have kept that secret. I have never mentioned it
+to any one. And do you remember that you said some time you would tell
+me more?" When she answered, "Yes," he said quickly, "Don't you think
+I'm old enough now?" In answer, the mother put her arms about him and
+said, "My son, you shall hear all you wish to hear. What is it, dear?"
+Then as each question came, she gave him a satisfactory answer, and
+ended by saying, "Whenever you want to know more, come to me, and I will
+tell you." That boy continued to go to his mother; and when he entered
+the most trying period of his life, her advice kept him from the dangers
+into which so many fall. In hours of trial she was able to point him to
+the Savior. Never neglect the duty of warning your child of danger.
+
+Teaching of this kind will endear you to your children long after you
+are resting in the grave. They will recount, "My mother told me this.
+My father taught me that. They must have understood God's plan of
+salvation, or they would never have known how to tell me these things."
+But the task will require your highest talents. Sympathy and love,
+constant watchfulness, and earnest prayer will be the most needful.
+Since the child does not know himself, you must learn to know him. You
+must search for the secret springs that govern his actions and for the
+master key that will unlock his heart.
+
+One dear young woman, relating her experience to me, said: "My mother
+died when I was only six years old; but I know she must have been a
+Christian, because some friends who knew her told me of her devoted life
+and of earnest pleadings for her children when she saw that she must
+leave them. All that I can remember about her was seeing her bowing in
+prayer or talking to us children. There are desires in my nature that I
+know must have been planted within me in answer to her prayer. After
+her death I was cast out upon the world. I went to live with a very
+ungodly family, but that sense of right and wrong within me made me shun
+and despise their evil ways. I loved to read my Bible. From it I learned
+that, if I would gain heaven, I must forsake sin and live a pure life.
+To live such a life was a pleasure until I found that the denomination
+whose meetings I attended would not allow me to say much about a holy
+life, because their creed did not teach it. Then I promised the Lord
+that I would be a Christian if I had to be one all by myself. This was
+not necessary, for I found many true Christians who believed all that
+the Bible teaches."
+
+That mother's prayers had fashioned and governed the life of her
+daughter long before the child was able to understand her mother's
+meaning. Parents can not begin too early to win the child's love and
+confidence, and they should spare no pains to maintain these to mature
+years. Those who do will find that their children will never, even to
+old age, fail to come to them for sympathy and advice. Children so
+reared will always love and honor their father and mother as the Bible
+says they should, and will look upon their parents' lives as examples
+for them to imitate. See to it that you show yourself a good pattern, in
+thought, word, and deed, for them to follow.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+
+USEFUL HINTS.
+
+There is no definite rule whereby parents may control their home, except
+to seek advice from God, for no two families have the same environment.
+Any method that will bring about the desired result may be applied; but
+the method must be systematic and thorough. A positive attitude is good,
+and should be encouraged, but harshness ought never to be used. The
+latter will tend to discouragement and resentment in the child, while
+the former will teach the difference between right and wrong.
+
+Be charitable to your children in regard to their faults and failings,
+so that they may learn by your example to be charitable to each other
+and to their fellows. Teach them the blessings that charity will bring
+to them; show them that it is the greatest of God's gifts and that
+without it they will meet many buffetings from their contact with the
+world. Remember that Paul speaks of it as "the more excellent way" and
+admonishes us to desire it above all things else.
+
+Children must have entertainment. Rich and costly furniture, elaborate
+parties, or even guests are not necessary. Children may be entertained
+in a very simple manner. What child does not enjoy the old-fashioned
+game of hide-and-seek, tag, or some such innocent amusement with Papa
+and Mama? It may take a little of your time, but what of that? Do all
+you can to make your home the happiest place on earth for your children.
+
+"Yes," says one, "that will do while the children are little; but just
+wait until they grow up, and then they will seek other company." I did
+not say that they must always stay with you. Of course they will desire
+to go from home sometimes. What I mean is that we can make home so
+attractive that they will note the difference between it and the outside
+world. The interest we take in them will constrain them to remain at
+home and to return when away from it. Home! Oh that beautiful word!
+Poets have written about it, choirs have sung about it, but who can
+fathom the meaning of that little word, home! None but the child who has
+been taught to revere, cherish, and enjoy it, and then looking back
+remembers the happy years spent in the home circle.
+
+I think that I hear a father say, "When I return from my work, I am so
+tired I can not stand the children's noise." Is that so? Do you not love
+your children, and are you not working for their welfare! If so, do you
+not think that a little less labor with your hands and a little time
+spent with them would be more profitable? Perhaps a little romp or chat
+with them would rest you. Try it anyway. You who are desk workers can
+afford it: it will help you to cast off the responsibilities of the day
+and the better prepare you for the morrow. A romp with the children is
+not lost; but, on the other hand, is a benefit for both parent and
+child. Thoughtful parents can think of many things that will increase
+the interest in home and will draw them closer to their children.
+
+Sometimes it is good for the children to visit their friends, but
+parents should always be acquainted with these friends. Never let your
+child go where games are played that you would not allow played in your
+own home. Here is where conscience and confidence will help you. Be
+cautious about allowing your child to go somewhere to stay all night. In
+this way many a child has learned evil practises and in some cases been
+ruined. Then, too, it draws his mind away from the home circle.
+
+"But," you say, "all this I have done, and yet my children are now
+forgetful of it all. They are indulging in many things that they were
+taught to be harmful to the soul." My dear friend, can you not remember
+when this state of things began? Can you not point to a time when there
+was a drifting from your home circle? when home life began to seem too
+narrow for your child? when he began to crave the association of others
+more than that of his own brothers and sisters? Did you at that time
+lift up your home banner and shield? Did you tell him of the rapids in
+the distance? "No," you falteringly answer; "I thought there could be no
+harm in allowing him to mingle with his chums at school and to visit
+them in their homes. I was afraid to be too particular, lest he should
+think me too strict with him." Ah! friend, that was your golden
+opportunity, and you failed to see it. After instructing the child, you
+should have bowed with him in prayer, giving him over to God's keeping.
+Then, if he chose to go--remembering that your prayers were following
+him--nine chances out of ten he would have returned with words similar
+to those spoken by a youth who had been permitted to attend a party. In
+answer to his father's question he said, "Yes; I had a good time, but I
+have better times at home." "Better times at home!" Think of it,
+parents! Is it not worth some self-denial, some sacrifices, on pour
+part, to have your home spoken of in this manner?
+
+"Yes," says a mother, "that is all right when both parents are in
+harmony and have salvation; but suppose that the parents are poor and
+that one is unsaved?" I have seen just such homes as this governed in
+the manner whereof I speak. God gave more grace and strength to the
+saved companion; and, although there were many difficulties to
+encounter, yet the saved one was able to influence the home for God.
+"All things are possible to him that believeth," said Christ in olden
+times, and his statement is still true.
+
+Again, I hear a parent whose loved companion has recently died say,
+"What can I do now to train my children aright?" There comes before my
+mind a beautiful scene of a faithful mother with her son and daughter
+whom she had brought up to God's glory. She was left alone with these
+two precious ones to guide and rear to manhood and womanhood. She bade
+adieu to the words "I can't" and with determination went about her task.
+As God never lets such zeal go without assistance, this mother found
+help in time of need. Another scene which I love to recall is that of a
+devoted father and by his side his two motherless daughters just
+entering womanhood. He gives them every spare moment that he has, and
+both are real examples of trust and purity.
+
+In your zeal to find entertainment for your children, do not forget that
+they must have employment. See that every member of your household has
+certain work to do. This work should be suited to the years and the
+strength of the individual and, if possible, to his likes and dislikes.
+Work of the proper kind will strengthen the muscles, improve the health,
+keep out many evils, and create in the young a desire to help bear the
+burdens of life. Periods of rest may be made profitable by having on
+hand as much wholesome literature as you are able to secure. By this
+means much useful knowledge may be stored. The reading need not be
+confined wholly to religious works; reliable treatises on science, art,
+mechanics, cooking, chemistry, domestic economy, health, etc., are all
+profitable if not indulged in to the exclusion of religious literature.
+If you trust God, he will help you to know what to do.
+
+A lady once said, "Our children are what we make them, and we get out of
+them just what we put in." These words contain much truth. God holds all
+parents, according to their light and understanding, responsible for the
+training of their children.
+
+If you have a preference among your children, never reveal it. On the
+contrary, endeavor to place the less favored ahead in your care and
+attention. You can justly do this, for the favorite will get all the
+attention he deserves anyway. I well remember a case where the mother's
+favorite son brought sorrow and shame to the entire household by
+stealing from his own father, simply because she had humored and petted
+him in childhood. Parents can not be too careful in this respect.
+
+Many a mother does not realize how highly her children value her
+opinion. A boy had met with an accident that somewhat disfigured him for
+a time. While he was preparing to leave for school, his mother said,
+"You will no doubt be made sport of today; are you able to bear it?" His
+answer was, "Oh, I don't care what any one says about me but you; but if
+you were to make fun of me, I couldn't stand it."
+
+SWEET GEM OF THE HOME.
+
+    _Thou formal home, so graced, so blest,
+      With earthly treasures rare;
+    Within thy portals we expect
+      All graces rich and fair.
+
+    We gaze, we search, but all in vain;
+      The gem we love so well,
+    "Sweet innocence," doth not remain,
+      Nor in thy chambers dwell.
+
+    Thy children, as the world they greet,
+      Are bearing tales of thee;
+    "I was not warned," they oft repeat,
+      Nor taught at Mother's knee.
+
+    Sweet Innocence, thou heav'nly grace,
+      Rich gem from God above!
+    Thy touch upon the human face
+      Reveals but peace and love.
+
+    Thy treasures richer far than gold,
+      Thy gifts of greatest worth,
+    Might grace our homes, except for sin,
+      Whose curse now sweeps the earth.
+
+    We look for thee within the maid,
+      With beauty, grace, and charm,
+    But find thy flight she hath not stayed,
+      Nor doth she feel alarm.
+
+    Then in the lad, whose noble brow
+      Thy presence might suggest;
+    With closer view we must allow
+      By thee he is not blest.
+
+    E'en when we look within the child
+      And laud his graces sweet,
+    We find his mind so soon defiled
+      For thee 'tis no retreat.
+
+    "And why?" we ask, "oh! why is this?
+      Such need and dearth abound.
+    Oh! why in homes of promised bliss
+      May not this gem be found?"
+
+    The mystery, so deep, so great,
+      Is simply lack of prayer;
+    Is bidding timely warning wait
+    For daily toil and care.
+
+    Allowing things that crumble, waste,
+      Our whole attention claim,
+    We cause sweet Innocence in haste
+    To leave our homes to shame.
+
+    But thee, sweet grace, we find in some--
+      Thank God thou art not lost!--
+    We see thee in the Christian home
+      As royal guest and host.
+
+    We note the mother as she pleads
+      For counsel from God's throne,
+    Then goes with wisdom that she needs
+      And strength to make it known.
+
+    We watch the child in this true home,
+      And in its face so fair
+    We recognise what doth become
+      A faithful mother's prayer.
+
+    Sweet Innocence! may we extol,
+      Within the home, thy art;
+    Thy power to beautify the soul,
+      To teach the pure in heart.
+
+    Thou gift divine! thou fairest gem!
+      Thy presence may we crave,
+    That thou mayst grace our diadem
+      In life beyond the grave.
+
+    Reveal, O grace, unto the world
+      Thy beauties rich and rare,
+    That all may understand and know
+      What mothers find in prayer_.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The value of a praying mother, by Isabel C. Byrum
+
+*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 12042 ***
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+<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 12042 ***</div>
+
+  <h1>THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER</h1>
+
+  <h2>BY ISABEL C. BYRUM</h2>
+
+  <p style="text-align: center;">GOSPEL TRUMPET COMPANY</p>
+
+  <p style="text-align: center;">First Printing 1911</p><br>
+
+  <h2>PREFACE.</h2>
+
+  <p>This book has a purpose: it is sent forth as precious seed,
+  with the prayer that it will fall into "good soil" in many hearts
+  and bring forth an hundredfold.</p>
+
+  <p>All parents with natural affection desire the best things for
+  their children. Such fathers and mothers have high hopes that
+  from their home will go forth noble men and women&mdash;yes, even
+  heroes. Many fail to realize the attainment of this ideal in
+  their children, because of a lack of the knowledge necessary to
+  bring about the desired development in the child-life.</p>
+
+  <p>The following pages were written with the fervent hope that
+  they would, at least in some measure, be a help in developing the
+  young lives entrusted to your care. If your harvest-time is past;
+  if your children have grown up and have left the old home, you
+  may be able to help some one who still has little ones to
+  train.</p>
+
+  <p>One object in relating actual experiences was that the reader
+  might be guided in the application of those principles of
+  child-training which, if merely stated in the abstract, might be
+  hard to understand and difficult of application. The principles
+  herein stated are not mere theories, but they have the
+  commendation of having stood the test of use. Two other objects
+  of this simple story of home life are that the thoughtful mother
+  may get a view of the effects of certain extreme environments on
+  the child-life and, by observing the substantial results
+  accomplished by a praying mother, she may discover the secret of
+  success.</p>
+
+  <p>The incidents of this little home story are all true, even to
+  minute details, as far as memory serves one of the actors in this
+  drama of home life after the lapse of many years; but as most of
+  the principal characters are still living, the correct names
+  have, for the most part, been withheld. Should one of your
+  children ask, "Mama, who was Bessie Worthington?" you can
+  truthfully answer, "She was a little girl who lived in Michigan;
+  and she and her papa and mama are still living."</p>
+
+  <p>If, by reading this little book, any mother shall see wherein
+  she can improve upon her past teaching, and thus be able to do
+  more for the spiritual and moral well-being of her children, the
+  writer will feel amply rewarded. May the blessing of God attend
+  it as it goes forth.</p><span style="margin-left: 3em;">Yours in
+  Him,</span><br>
+  <span style="margin-left: 4em;">Isabel C. Byrum.</span><br>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CONTENTS"></a>
+
+  <h2>CONTENTS.</h2><a href="#CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I.</a> - Two
+  Scenes<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II.</a> - A Praying Mother<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III.</a> - Early Training<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV.</a> - God's Care<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V.</a> - Consecration<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI.</a> - Conscience<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII.</a> - A Downward Step<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII.</a> - A Wise Decision<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX.</a> - Self-Control<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X.</a> - Parental Control<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI.</a> - Christian Experience<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XII">CHAPTER XII.</a> - The Beautiful
+  Secret<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">CHAPTER XIII.</a> - Blessing and
+  Trial<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">CHAPTER XIV.</a> - The Surprise Party<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XV">CHAPTER XV.</a> - Leroy's Healing<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">CHAPTER XVI.</a> - Explaining the Divine
+  Life<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">CHAPTER XVII.</a> - Temptations<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">CHAPTER XVIII.</a> - Answers to
+  Prayer<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">CHAPTER XIX.</a> - Lost in the Woods<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XX">CHAPTER XX.</a> - Novel-Reading<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">CHAPTER XXI.</a> - Glad Tidings<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">CHAPTER XXII.</a> - The Meetings<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">CHAPTER XXIII.</a> - Bessie Sees Her
+  Duty<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV">CHAPTER XXIV.</a> - Reverie<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXV">CHAPTER XXV.</a> - A Plea to Mothers<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI">CHAPTER XXVI.</a> - Parental Duty<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII">CHAPTER XXVII.</a> - Useful Hints<br>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="THE_VALUE_OF_A_PRAYING_MOTHER"></a>
+
+  <h2>THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER</h2>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_I"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER I.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    TWO SCENES.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>How delightful to step into the home where God is counselor of
+  both parent and child! How blessed the companionship in such a
+  home! There God counsels in sweet, tender tones. He teaches his
+  will and gives the needed wisdom. God is man's truest and best
+  teacher. James says, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of
+  God, that giveth to all men liberally ... and it shall be given
+  him." Be the home ever so beautiful, if it is not a house of
+  prayer, it is not a place of true happiness. Parents should often
+  commune with the Lord; especially the mother, with her many cares
+  and perplexities, if she would do justice to the little ones
+  entrusted to her care.</p>
+
+  <p>A beautiful picture now comes to my mind&mdash;a picture of an
+  ideal mother of olden time. She dwelt in Ramah of Palestine. Her
+  lonely home nestled among the lonely hills. She loved to commune
+  with the Lord, for deep in her bosom she carried a sorrow that
+  only he could help her to bear. Her home lacked that sweet
+  sunlight which innocent childhood brings. She longed and prayed
+  for a little life to guide and direct in the ways of the
+  Lord.</p>
+
+  <p>Once every year she went with her husband to Shiloh, where
+  sacrifices were offered, and there publicly worshiped the Lord.
+  When at the house of the Lord one day, she prayed long and
+  earnestly that God would grant the desire of her heart. "O Lord
+  of hosts," she prayed, "if thou wilt indeed look on the
+  affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget
+  thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child,
+  then I will give him unto the Lord all the days of his life, and
+  there shall no razor come upon his head."</p>
+
+  <p>A scene like this must have been rare even to the priest of
+  God; for he mistook this sad woman for one drunken with wine. She
+  begged him not to look upon her as such. When the man of God saw
+  by her modest, earnest words that she was not drunken as he had
+  supposed, he changed his reproof into a blessing. "Go in peace,"
+  he said, "and the God of Israel grant thy petition that thou hast
+  asked of him." With perfect confidence that God had heard and
+  answered prayer, the woman arose and returned with her husband to
+  their home in Ramah.</p>
+
+  <p>The next year she did not go up to Shiloh; for God had granted
+  her petition and had given her a little son. Her husband was
+  willing for her to remain at home, but he cautioned her not to
+  forget her promise to the Lord. He feared, perhaps, that the
+  mother might become so attached to her child that she would be
+  unwilling to part with him as she had promised. His warning was
+  unnecessary.</p>
+
+  <p>As soon as Samuel (for this is what the mother named her son)
+  was old enough to be useful, she took him to the house of God and
+  presented him to the Lord. It must have sounded to the aged
+  priest (who soon would have to cease his work upon earth) like a
+  voice from heaven, when the happy mother, pointing to her child,
+  said: "For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my
+  petition which I asked of him: therefore also I have lent him to
+  the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord."</p>
+
+  <p>Again the mother prays; this time not in sorrow, but from a
+  heart filled with thanksgiving. She feels no regret because of
+  her vow. Her child became a great blessing to many people, and
+  the Lord gave her other sons and daughters to cheer her
+  heart.</p>
+
+  <p>By reading the story we find that "the child Samuel grew and
+  was in favor both with the Lord and also with men." Why was this?
+  In answer to his devoted mother's prayer, the Holy Spirit hovered
+  over that child, shielding him from the cruel darts and arrows of
+  the enemy. He had been taught the ways of the Lord from his
+  cradle and his life was fully consecrated to God.</p>
+
+  <p>A different scene comes before me now&mdash;a scene that
+  brings a shudder. Upon a ship sailing along the shores of France
+  were a man and his wife on their way to join a band of villainous
+  people in India. Being on a secret mission, they traveled slowly
+  and carefully. It was a tedious and dangerous journey. One stormy
+  day, on the Bay of Biscay, a child was born to them.</p>
+
+  <p>No loving welcome from the lips of a prayerful parent awaited
+  this poor little innocent child; instead, curses were his
+  portion, and, by the order of his mother, he was cast aside in a
+  pile of rubbish to die. By chance the father passed that way and,
+  finding his child's poor little perishing form, picked it up,
+  took it to his wife, and commanded her to see that it was cared
+  for.</p>
+
+  <p>As the child grew and developed in this atmosphere of sin and
+  degradation, is it strange that he partook of his parents' nature
+  and developed even worse habits than they? Unless the proper home
+  influence is thrown around a child, he can not help suffering
+  from the inherited sins of his parents.</p>
+
+  <p>When this child became a man, he knew nothing of virtue and
+  honesty. His life was enveloped in a shroud of darkest crimes.
+  Leaving India, he went to Europe and from there sailed to
+  America. Each year found him better acquainted with court
+  proceedings and prison walls. It was a common thing for him to
+  break into a man's house and steal every valuable that he could
+  find.</p>
+
+  <p>I recently met this man and heard from his own lips the dark
+  story of his life. As he was relating an account of a desperate
+  burglary, I asked him what he would have done if the man of the
+  house had awakened. "Please do not ask me." he answered. "I was
+  always armed, and a man's life was no more to me than a dog's.
+  There are scenes that I can not, I dare not, recall, for I am a
+  changed man now."</p>
+
+  <p>Thank God, he is a changed man. He had not been too vile for
+  God to find. Jesus had cleansed his heart from all desire to do
+  evil. Having confessed his crimes and given himself up to be
+  punished, he had been sent to prison, but because of good
+  behavior had been soon pardoned. He is now spending his life
+  among the lower class, whom he understands so well and pities so
+  much, trying to show them the way of salvation.</p>
+
+  <p>Note the atmosphere that surrounded the cradle of each of the
+  babes of whom we have been speaking. In the first home we find
+  prayer, love, hope, and tenderness; in the last, sin, hatred,
+  crime, and villainy. Oh that mothers everywhere would take
+  warning! If only these two pictures could be framed and hung in
+  the recesses of every mother's heart where they might teach their
+  silent lesson! If only mothers might see how powerful for good or
+  evil is their influence; how the affections and the mental powers
+  may be moulded by prayer and maternal love, and how the
+  groundwork for the future of the child may be laid in its early
+  training!</p>
+
+  <p>A sensible mother has a charm and wields an influence that
+  takes a fast hold on the hearts of those who are dear to her. The
+  kindly sympathy of youth, the deep affection of manhood, can be
+  traced to influences that began at mother's knee.</p>
+
+  <p>What true, prayerful mother does not feel as her child closely
+  nestles to her bosom that she is invested with a divine,
+  mysterious power, an influence which she can not understand? Then
+  it is that she sees her imperfections and longs for wisdom to
+  know how to guide her child. God alone can supply that
+  understanding. She is her child's book of wisdom, love, and,
+  beauty, but she should be of God's writing.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_II"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER II.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    A PRAYING MOTHER.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Still another mother comes before my mind&mdash;an earnest,
+  zealous, pious mother, who fashioned her life and example
+  continually by God's Word and endeavored daily to teach her
+  children the deep truths of salvation in language so simple that
+  they could understand, to seek out the causes of their failures
+  and discouragements, and to give them timely advice and
+  instruction.</p>
+
+  <p>As I trace a few of her experiences, which are all true
+  incidents, I trust they may sink into some perplexed mother's
+  heart and enable her to wield the instruments of love and prayer
+  about her darlings and to be more able to guide their tender
+  hearts in the right course.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington lived in the great city of Chicago, in a
+  small cottage on Portland Avenue near Thirty-first Street.
+  Nothing about the dwelling was elaborate; everything was simple,
+  but very neat. Pretty vines trailed gracefully over the porch and
+  windows, and a few flower beds filled up the dull nooks and
+  corners. In front of the house was a grassy lawn enclosed by a
+  picket fence. Here the children could play apart from the rough
+  waifs that thronged the street. Within the cottage the same quiet
+  taste was in evidence.</p>
+
+  <p>Every day in her cozy sitting-room Mrs. Worthington talked
+  with her little girls, Bessie and Louise. In times of trouble and
+  perplexity she bowed with them in prayer. How much the children
+  enjoyed their mother's comradeship and counsel! The mother
+  realized the importance of these early impressions made on the
+  child's mind. She had promised God to do all in her power to
+  train her children for heaven. She had commenced early, even from
+  the time she had first looked into the depths of their innocent
+  eyes.</p>
+
+  <p>She had taught them that when any trouble arose between them,
+  they were to kneel in prayer and ask God to help the one who had
+  done wrong. Once she heard Bessie say, "Louise, I have prayed for
+  you three times, and I believe I shall have to pray for you
+  again." Louise was not a bad child; she had as sweet and happy a
+  disposition as Bessie; but, as with all small children, little
+  difficulties arose between them.</p>
+
+  <p>Wishing to know what her two little girls would do on such an
+  occasion, she watched them. Bessie quietly took her little
+  sister's hand, lead her aside, and knelt with her in prayer. Then
+  with all earnestness she prayed, "O Lord, help Louise to to be
+  good, for Jesus' sake. Amen." The prayer, though short, was
+  effectual; for both went back to their play with happy faces, and
+  they had no more trouble that day.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_III"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER III.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    EARLY TRAINING.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As the daily teaching continued, Mrs. Worthington taught her
+  children many helpful lessons. She told them of the great
+  necessity of a Savior and of his mission to humanity. She taught
+  them how God looked upon disobedience, and always illustrated her
+  talks with interesting Bible stories and their every-day
+  experiences. In this way she taught them not only the evil
+  effects of wrong-doing but also the sure reward of
+  right-doing.</p>
+
+  <p>One summer, while the family was spending their vacation in
+  Michigan at the pretty country home of an aunt, something
+  happened that helped the children to apprehend their mother's
+  meaning. This incident, although in some measure painful to Mrs.
+  Worthington, impressed the lesson upon their young minds almost
+  better than anything else could have.</p>
+
+  <p>The house was situated upon a hill that sloped gradually down
+  to the shore of a lake. In many ways this lake was very
+  attractive, especially to the two little girls, who were then at
+  the ages of two and four years. Mrs. Worthington carefully warned
+  the children of the danger of playing near the lake shore; but,
+  not realizing the greatness of their temptation, she trusted them
+  too far. Time after time they made their way down to the water's
+  edge. Something must be done; but what?</p>
+
+  <p>One morning Mr. Worthington noticed his little daughters
+  standing in front of the house. Although he could not hear their
+  words, he clearly perceived that they were talking about a trip
+  to the forbidden lake. They hesitated some time, but at last
+  walked slowly down the hillside to the lake. Again they
+  hesitated. Finally descending the steps of the boat-house, they
+  stepped into the sparkling water. How dainty the ripples about
+  their feet, and how clear the water!</p>
+
+  <p>"Surely there can be no harm or danger," thought Bessie; but
+  she remembered the oft-repeated warnings of her parents and aunt.
+  The shells lost their beauty when she remembered hearing her
+  father say that bears sometimes travel up and down the shores.
+  What if a bear should some that morning? She gave a quick,
+  searching glance among the trees, but, seeing nothing, she tried
+  to forget about bears. She might have been able to forget about
+  them, but she could not forget that she was disobedient. Her
+  conscience would not let her; the more she tried to forget, the
+  louder it talked. She was just about to take her little sister
+  back to the house, when she heard a rustling among the branches
+  of a tall tree directly above the path over which she must pass.
+  The next moment she thought she heard a low growl. "O Louise,"
+  she cried, "I do believe that is the bear papa told us about."
+  The tree then began to sway from side to side and they heard
+  another growl, louder than the first. Seizing her little sister's
+  hand, Bessie hastened to help her out of the water. By this time
+  both were thoroughly frightened; for while visiting one of the
+  parks in Chicago once, they had seen a bear hug his keeper until
+  he could not stand. Bessie remembered the incident and tried to
+  help Louise to hurry; but when the tree shook again, this time
+  just above her, she screamed wildly and ran a few steps alone.
+  When she got past the danger-point her reason returned, and,
+  looking back, she saw her sister's great danger, as she stood
+  just beneath the fatal tree. Rushing back, she almost carried
+  Louise (while the growling continued), and they were soon up the
+  hill. In the house they told of their strange experience, the
+  substance of the story being, "The bear; The bear!"</p>
+
+  <p>Mr. Worthington soon joined the excited circle and secretly
+  explained to his wife that he had been the supposed bear and that
+  he had taken this course to teach the children a lesson. His plan
+  was successful, for after that the children did not care to go to
+  the lake alone.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington, however, was very sad because her children
+  had been deceived. Unlike her husband, who was not a Christian,
+  she believed in keeping the confidence of her children and in
+  praying with them when they were disobedient. She decided to be
+  more prompt and watchful in the future and to shield them from
+  temptation as much as possible.</p>
+
+  <p>She improved the opportunity for some wholesome instruction.
+  From the stories of Jonah and King Saul she brought forth some
+  excellent lessons on disobedience. She told the children that,
+  although they might think when tempted to disobey that nobody saw
+  them, yet there was one whose eye was ever beholding their deeds,
+  whether good or bad. Then she knelt in prayer with her children,
+  praying with a full heart to that God who is everywhere present
+  and from whom all our strength must come, that he would teach her
+  how to guide the precious souls entrusted to her care.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_IV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER IV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    GOD'S CARE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Considering this mother's deep piety, do you think it strange
+  that she saw God's hand in everything that befell her, and
+  ascribed praise to him for it all?</p>
+
+  <p>After the return of the family to their home in Chicago the
+  father became very ill. His sickness was so severe and so long
+  continued that poverty began to threaten them. Mr. Worthington
+  could not take the resigned view of their circumstances that his
+  wife took, but often gave way to complaining. But Mrs.
+  Worthington thanked God that things were no worse and ever
+  encouraged her husband with the promises that God would
+  provide.</p>
+
+  <p>At last Christmas morning came and found them in extreme
+  poverty. Mr. Worthington still weak from his illness, but able to
+  go around a little, came in from his morning walk very gloomy and
+  feeling that his friends were very few. "This is the saddest
+  Christmas I have ever known," he said to Mrs. Worthington. "It is
+  almost more than I can bear to know that I have nothing to give
+  the children today, and barely enough in the house to eat. I did
+  not realize it so keenly until I saw an old man trudging along
+  Thirty-first Street with a large pack upon his back. That man was
+  surely going to surprise some of his friends. How much we need a
+  friend like that!" "Never mind," said Mrs. Worthington softly;
+  "God has promised to be a friend in time of need, and I believe
+  he will care for us today."</p>
+
+  <p>As she finished speaking, a rap was heard at the door. Mr.
+  Worthington arose slowly, wondering who could be their early
+  caller. When he opened the door, he was greatly surprised to see
+  the aged man with the pack and to find him to be his own father.
+  Mr. Worthington had entered the house too soon to see his father
+  turn the corner and enter the yard.</p>
+
+  <p>As the large burden was laid upon the floor and unpacked,
+  there seemed to be no end to the good things. A turkey, cake,
+  pies, in fact, all that was needful for a generous Christmas
+  dinner, as well as a gift for each one. It was a very thankful
+  family that gathered around the table that day.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_V"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER V.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    CONSECRATION.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>In regard to her children, Mrs. Worthington had passed through
+  a deep consecration. She fully realized that they were only lent
+  her by the Lord, entrusted to her care to be trained for
+  usefulness in his service, and she was determined to do all in
+  her power to prepare them as the Lord intended. In all sincerity,
+  she had placed her children upon the altar of consecration,
+  promising God never to let her will interfere with his designs
+  concerning them.</p>
+
+  <p>I do not think a child of God ever makes a consecration that
+  is not tested in some form or other. This mother's consecration
+  was tested.</p>
+
+  <p>A wealthy aunt, having lost all her children and being very
+  lonely, thought to fill the vacancy in her heart and home by
+  adopting a little child. After several vain attempts to find a
+  suitable child, she sought the home of her niece, Mrs.
+  Worthington. She came with many misgivings. When she made her
+  errand known, her niece said: "Auntie, my children are no longer
+  mine; I have given them to the Lord, and whatever is his will
+  concerning them shall be mine. You will have to obtain my
+  husband's consent." Thus far Aunt A. was delighted with her
+  success, and she eagerly sought the father. She tried to point
+  out to Mrs. Worthington, who was heartbroken at the prospect of
+  losing her child, how abundantly able she (the aunt) was to
+  provide for the child and spoke of the extreme poverty of the
+  Worthington home. The mother knew all this, but she knew too that
+  God's Spirit does not always rule in wealthy homes. Would she do
+  right to let her child slip from under her parental care? Many
+  thoughts of this nature surged through her brain, and many
+  temptations to say no came to her; but instead of giving a
+  decisive answer she sought counsel from the all-wise Counselor.
+  While in prayer she thought of faithful Abraham's trial regarding
+  Isaac, and she felt that God was just as able to carry her
+  through temptation or test, if she submitted all to his will.</p>
+
+  <p>Mr. Worthington gave his consent for one of the children to go
+  for a visit. The aunt having chosen Bessie, hasty preparations
+  were made for their departure. As the mother kissed her
+  curly-haired little girl good-by, her heart seemed bursting with
+  sorrow. She tried to control her feelings, but only God knew the
+  wound that her aunt's parting words made. "Use your influence in
+  my behalf, Niece, with your husband, in case we want to keep
+  Bessie," she had said, and then the great train moved slowly from
+  the station. Abraham was all the mother could think of on her
+  return home. Oh! would God give her back her child?</p>
+
+  <p>Letter after letter came, each telling how fond the aunt and
+  her husband were of Bessie and how happy she was in her new home,
+  but not a word about her return. Four, five, six weeks passed.
+  Then one day a letter came stating that they had decided not to
+  adopt a child now and that, as Bessie was getting homesick, the
+  parents might expect her home the next day. Then, it had been
+  only a test! Oh, how glad Mrs. Worthington was that she had been
+  faithful. Yes, her God was the very same God that Abraham had
+  served centuries before. It was hard to wait until train-time the
+  next day. When once more the loving mother held her darling child
+  in her arms, the tears that could not flow for weeks streamed
+  freely.</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie was glad to be at home again. After the cold, formal,
+  loveless life at her aunt's, she appreciated her own humble home
+  more than ever before.</p>
+
+  <p>But a far greater test was waiting the dear mother&mdash;one
+  that would call for more than human strength to bear.</p>
+
+  <p>After Bessie's return Mrs. Worthington put forth every effort
+  to teach her children more about heavenly things. She bore in
+  mind the scripture, "Train up a child in the way it should go;
+  and when it is old, it will not depart from it." As she did not
+  want to fail along this line, she spent every spare moment with
+  her children. And she seldom let them go from home to visit
+  unaccompanied by her; but one day, being very busy, she let them
+  go alone to their grandmother's. The distance was not great, and
+  Bessie, now nearly six years old, knew the way perfectly. All
+  would have been well had their grandmother been at home. She
+  being away, the girls stopped to watch some children at play.
+  These children were breaking old bottles that they had picked up
+  in the alley. As the little girls stood watching the sport, a
+  large brown bottle was brought forth and with a heavy stroke of
+  the hammer was broken. Small pieces of the glass flew in every
+  direction. One piece struck Louise on the palm of the hand just
+  below the thumb, knocking off the skin, but not producing a wound
+  deep enough to bleed. Her grandmother, who appeared on the scene
+  just at this time, examined the wound. She though it would soon
+  be all right, but bound it up with a cloth to satisfy the child.
+  The children played as usual and then returned home in time for
+  supper.</p>
+
+  <p>When they came in, their mother, who had been very busy
+  through the day at housecleaning, was preparing a hasty supper,
+  and she gave them no special attention. The family were soon
+  seated around the supper-table. They had not been there long
+  until Mrs. Worthington noticed that Louise was not eating. She
+  asked the child why she did not eat, but received no reply. On
+  being asked if her throat was sore, Louise nodded her head. Still
+  the mother did not think the child's condition serious; and,
+  after pinning a flannel around the child's neck, she did the
+  evening work and prepared to attend a prayer-meeting. She had
+  noticed the rag upon Louise's hand, but Bessie had laughed about
+  the little cut and said, "Grandma tied it up just to please
+  Louise."</p>
+
+  <p>Although the meeting that night was unusually good, Mrs.
+  Worthington could not forget the expression on her child's face
+  as they had kissed each other good-by. It seemed to be before her
+  all the time; so she really felt relieved when the meeting closed
+  and she could return.</p>
+
+  <p>Upon entering her home she immediately asked her husband, "How
+  is Louise?" He answered that she had been very naughty and cross
+  and that he had been obliged to punish her. This news increased
+  the mother's fears. Feeling of the child's head, she found it hot
+  and feverish.</p>
+
+  <p>As Louise continued to grow worse, at two o'clock in the
+  morning Mrs. Worthington thought it best to examine the child's
+  throat; but when the mother asked the little girl to open her
+  mouth, she said, "Mama, I can't."</p>
+
+  <p>"What!" exclaimed the mother, "you can not open your mouth!
+  Why, child, what is the matter with you?" Although Louise tried
+  repeatedly to open her mouth, she could force her teeth apart
+  only about an eighth of an inch, and only with great difficulty
+  could she speak.</p>
+
+  <p>By this time Mr. Worthington had fully awakened to the fact
+  that something serious was troubling his child, and he sprang to
+  her side. As soon as possible they summoned a doctor. He found
+  that the cut on her hand had caused lockjaw, but said that there
+  was no cause for alarm. The parents, however, felt very anxious
+  and called in several doctors for consultation. They found that
+  it was too late to do anything for the child. "The course of this
+  disease," said the doctors, "is usually very rapid; and we are
+  sorry that we can offer no hope."</p>
+
+  <p>When Mrs. Worthington heard the doctors' verdict, anguish such
+  as she had never experienced before filled her soul. Her thoughts
+  went back to the previous night. Oh! why had she not examined the
+  child closely then? In her distress she cried to the Lord,
+  saying, "Dear Lord, what can this mean? Must I go through another
+  test with one of my children? If so, help me to say amen to thy
+  will!"</p>
+
+  <p>Everything possible was done for the comfort of the little
+  sufferer. The little life was swiftly nearing its close. Even
+  when the doctors injected medicine into her arm to relieve her
+  pain, she did not murmur. Forgetful for a moment of her
+  suffering, she looked into her mother's eyes and said, "Mama, I
+  love you"; then turning to her father, "Papa, I love you"; and
+  then to the doctors and friends, "I like all these folks."</p>
+
+  <p>What a beautiful testimony? She had only kindly feelings in
+  her heart for all, even for the doctors, who seemed to be her
+  enemies. Her words were as a message sent from God as they fell
+  into that mother's heart. They seemed as sweet incense and a
+  soothing balm to her troubled spirit. Gazing into the child's
+  face, the mother read of the tender, compassionate love of God
+  for suffering humanity; she read of the depth of Christ's love
+  for the innocent and pure; and, by the heavenly smile that
+  lighted the little face as her darling sank into unconsciousness,
+  she saw that the child realized her Savior's presence.</p>
+
+  <p>Slowly the tide is going out; the soul of the child is passing
+  from the mother's presence into life immortal. "O my darling,
+  speak to me once more!" The large blue eyes slowly unclose; a
+  look of disappointment comes into them as she says, "Where has
+  Jesus gone?" The dear eyes softly close; she sinks again into
+  unconsciousness; the beautiful expression of happiness returns;
+  the mother knows that her darling is in the arms of Jesus and is
+  content.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington did not sorrow as those who have no hope; for
+  she knew that her heavenly Father knew best, and she could look
+  up with confidence and say, "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath
+  taken away: blessed be the name of the Lord." With the father it
+  was different. Up to this time he had never had any serious
+  thoughts of a future life. He knew that his wife was a good
+  woman, but he considered her religious views rather strange. She
+  had seen so much error among the popular religious denominations
+  and had felt such bondage when meeting with them, that she
+  worshiped with a few spiritual people in a little prayer-meeting.
+  Because of this peculiarity, he had even feared that her mind was
+  affected; but now, when he saw her fortitude under deep trial, he
+  felt that surely there was an unseen power supporting her&mdash;a
+  power that he secretly longed to possess, although the time for
+  attaining it he set indefinitely in the future.</p>
+
+  <p>As Louise had been his idol, his grief was deep. It stirred
+  his whole being. Her last testimony had convinced him that there
+  is a Savior, that he is interested in mankind, and that he is
+  able to keep in every affliction. Standing by the cold, lifeless
+  form of his little daughter, he promised God that he would meet
+  her in heaven.</p>
+
+  <p>After these things Mrs. Worthington realized more keenly than
+  ever the value of confidence between children and parents. With
+  renewed energy she sought daily to strengthen that cord which now
+  seemed to her almost divine. Her daily talks now contained a
+  richer and deeper meaning to Bessie, whose understanding of
+  heavenly things was growing clearer since her sister's death.
+  Through her mother's teaching she gained a knowledge of God and
+  spiritual life that would have taken her many, many years to
+  comprehend had she been left to herself.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was surprised and pleased to note Bessie's
+  confidence in her mother's teaching. One day, in answer to the
+  assertion of a little neighbor girl that Louise was not alive,
+  but dead and buried, Bessie said, "I know Sister's body is dead
+  and buried, but her soul is living with Jesus. He was waiting for
+  her when she died and took her soul away with him."</p>
+
+  <p>"I am glad, my child," said her mother, sometime after this
+  conversation, "that you love to come to me with things that
+  trouble you; for as you're going to school now, you can not help
+  hearing and seeing many things that I would rather keep from you
+  until you're older. You'll see and hear many things that you
+  should allow no place in your life; but if you'll always come to
+  me, I'll instruct you so that they'll not be harmful to you. When
+  I was a child, how I longed for some one in whom I could confide!
+  My mother was a good woman, but she didn't realize how I often
+  longed to unburden my heart to her. Father understood this
+  desire, and we often had confidential talks.</p>
+
+  <p>"I shall never forget my gratitude when he took me upon his
+  knee one day and told me about many dangers young girls must meet
+  and explained how I might avoid them. His words were just in
+  time; for I had often been allowed to spend the evening at the
+  home of a little friend, who, like myself, was not taught how to
+  meet danger. At first our play had been innocent sports, but a
+  short time before my father's talk a cousin had come to board
+  with the family and attend school. He at once encouraged us to
+  play a game of cards with him. As I knew nothing of the evil of
+  card-playing, I was eager to learn; for he gave me much praise
+  and allowed me to win very often, always rewarding me with a pile
+  of candy. The appearance of so much candy in my possession had
+  led to my father's talk. As father unfolded the nature of
+  card-playing and gambling, a horror for them that has never left
+  me came into my heart. After this I often sought my father's
+  counsel; his faithful admonitions and tender words of
+  encouragement caused me to have more and more confidence in
+  him."</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington sighed deeply as she continued, "The memory
+  of my dear father is sacred, Bessie. Many times I've thanked the
+  Lord that my father knew the worth of prayer and the value of the
+  confidence of his children. He helped me to tide over the most
+  critical period of my life, and I love to recall the
+  encouragement of his devoted life."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_VI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER VI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    CONSCIENCE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>One day when Bessie was about eight years old, she said:
+  "Mama, you've often told me that if I'd listen to the voice of
+  conscience it would keep me out of danger. What is conscience? I
+  don't understand."</p>
+
+  <p>"My dear child," answered her mother, "your happiness depends
+  upon a pure conscience, one that is void of offense. By the
+  Lord's help, I will gladly explain. Conscience is that which
+  causes us to feel bad when we do what we've been taught to be
+  wrong. At first it is very tender and active. Then, no matter how
+  enticing the temptation, the conscience will warn one not to
+  yield. You've heard your conscience speaking to you, haven't you,
+  Bessie?"</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes, Mama," answered Bessie; "that was why I wanted to know
+  more about it. I thought at first it was some person speaking;
+  but when I remembered you had told me that we each have a
+  conscience to tell us to do right, I knew it must be the voice of
+  conscience."</p>
+
+  <p>"When it speaks, you must listen," said Mrs. Worthington.
+  "Give heed to its warnings. This little story will show you how
+  careful we should be to heed the warning voice of conscience.</p>
+
+  <p>"'Wishing to arise at an early hour each morning, a gentleman
+  purchased an alarm-clock. He took it home, and, having set it,
+  went to bed and slept soundly. In the morning, to the gentleman's
+  great delight, the clock aroused him, so that he was able to get
+  to work in time.</p>
+
+  <p>"'For a time he would spring out of bed as soon as the alarm
+  sounded, and the clock never failed to wake him. One morning,
+  however, on hearing the clock sound its usual alarm, he awoke,
+  but, feeling a little sleepy, he lay back on his pillow, thinking
+  that he would get up in a short time. In a few minutes he fell
+  asleep, and did not awake again until very late. He dressed
+  hastily, and, missing his breakfast, hurried away to his work. He
+  resolved not to be so foolish again, and for a time did better;
+  but in a few days he had again overslept. He became more and more
+  neglectful, failing time after time to heed the alarm. At length
+  it only partially aroused him, and he soon slumbered again. Day
+  by day it disturbed him less, until at last it did not arouse him
+  at all, although it sounded as loudly as ever.'</p>
+
+  <p>"So will it be with your conscience. If you don't heed its
+  voice, you'll hear it speaking less loudly each day until its
+  voice will at last cause you no discomfort. You'll then be in a
+  very dangerous moral condition. No one but God can help you out.
+  This is one reason why, Bessie, many people can do things that
+  you can not.</p>
+
+  <p>"Satan aimed his first blow at the conscience; for if he can
+  silence it, then he can lead the soul deeper and deeper into
+  sin."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_VII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER VII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    A DOWNWARD STEP.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>"I have good news for you, Bessie," said Mrs. Worthington as
+  Bessie came skipping into the room from her play. "Your papa and
+  I have decided to leave our little home here in Chicago and buy a
+  home in Michigan."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, how nice!" exclaimed Bessie, who was still in her eighth
+  year. "Shall we live with Aunt Emma again?"</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes, or rather she will live with us," said her mother,
+  smiling. "Your auntie's health is very poor, and she is tired of
+  the responsibility of farming; so we'll relieve her."</p>
+
+  <p>The following weeks were happy ones for Bessie. The Lord had
+  been good to her in many ways. He had given her a little baby
+  brother to love and care for, and now she was about to have a
+  pleasant home in the country. She had not forgotten the good
+  times she had enjoyed on the farm with her little sister, and she
+  was very eager for the month of August to come, the time when the
+  family was to move. At last the time came to start. With beating
+  heart Bessie counted the hours that must pass before she could
+  run in the orchard and eat the luscious fruit.</p>
+
+  <p>It was late in the afternoon when the Worthington family
+  arrived at their new home. The greetings over, Bessie was
+  contemplating a ramble where she had noticed some large red
+  apples hanging; but just then her aunt said, "Bessie, you must
+  not pick any of the fruit on the place this summer, as the farm
+  is rented and the fruit does not belong to us." This was such a
+  disappointment to the little girl that she could not restrain her
+  tears.</p>
+
+  <p>As the days passed by, she often looked longingly toward the
+  tree where hung the beautiful apples, but she never once thought
+  of pulling one, for her mother had carefully taught her the great
+  evil of stealing. "But oh!" thought Bessie, "if only one of the
+  apples would fall upon the ground, I could pick it up, and I
+  wouldn't be stealing it." With this wish in her heart, she daily
+  watched the trees in hopes that just one would fall.</p>
+
+  <p>At last her hope was realized. Walking through the orchard one
+  day after a hard wind-storm, she spied several large red apples
+  lying in the soft sand. With a fast-beating heart, she hastened
+  to pick them all up; and, placing them carefully in her apron,
+  she hurried to the house, oft repeating to herself, "I didn't
+  steal them, for the wind blew them off."</p>
+
+  <p>As she entered the house, she began to tell how she came by
+  the apples, but stopped in dismay, for she saw her mother's look
+  of disapproval. Very tenderly Mrs. Worthington took her little
+  daughter aside and, sitting down by her, said: "My dear, you
+  don't understand what you've done: those apples are as truly
+  stolen as if you had picked them from the tree. You must take
+  them to Mrs. S. and explain that you didn't know you were
+  stealing them. Taking little things and trying to ease the
+  conscience by saying, 'It doesn't amount to anything,' causes the
+  conscience to fall asleep and to cease its activity. Thus the
+  evil habit of taking what doesn't belong to us becomes a part of
+  our nature, and step by step we fall into greater sin.</p>
+
+  <p>"I once heard of a young man who was about to be hanged upon
+  the gallows. Just before the fatal moment he received permission
+  to speak to any of his friends, if he desired. Calling for his
+  aunt, who had reared him, he moved forward as if to speak to her,
+  but instead he bit off her ear. Amid the exclamations of horror
+  that followed, the young man said: 'You think what I have done is
+  cruel. Let me tell you that, had my aunt done her duty by me, I
+  should not be here today. Had she taken the pains to inquire
+  where I obtained the lead pencils, knives, handkerchiefs, and
+  other small articles which I brought home from time to time; had
+  she not accepted the flimsy excuse that I had found them; had she
+  warned me of my danger, and not praised me for "finding" the
+  things I had stolen,&mdash;I might have escaped this awful
+  end.'</p>
+
+  <p>"So, Bessie, you can see the danger of allowing anything like
+  this&mdash;though it does appear a trifle&mdash;to pass by
+  unnoticed. You may go and return the apples to Mrs. S., who is
+  now in the orchard."</p>
+
+  <p>The lesson was severe and lasting; and as Bessie returned the
+  apples to their rightful owner, it settled deep into her
+  heart.</p>
+
+  <p>Parents, beware. Through neglect, the habit of lying begins.
+  An untruth is passed over carelessly and the child allowed to
+  cover up its sins without realizing their sinfulness. Likewise,
+  many other evil habits that have wrecked lives and brought sorrow
+  and disgrace into homes may be traced to the same carelessness on
+  the part of parents and friends.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER VIII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    A WISE DECISION.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>The lake in front of the Worthington home, though nearly five
+  miles in length, had too small a harbor to permit the entrance of
+  the large Chicago boats. It was therefore necessary, each evening
+  in summer, for small steamboats to gather up the fruit from the
+  farms along the lake and to carry it to the nearest port for
+  large steamers. It was interesting to see the piles of berry
+  crates loaded upon the steamer from the docks extending out into
+  the lake. At such times a crowd of young people frequently
+  arranged to go for a pleasant ride on Lake Michigan, and a few
+  times Bessie had gone.</p>
+
+  <p>There was to be such an excursion on the occasion of which I
+  wish to speak, and the young people expected to attend a circus
+  in a city close to the haven to which they were going. Bessie
+  wished very much to go. She soon obtained her father's consent,
+  but went to her mother with many misgivings, for she knew that
+  her mother never went to a circus and that she had always spoken
+  against her going at other times.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was very busy, but she always had time to
+  advise her daughter and to hear her requests. She listened
+  carefully to every word her daughter had to say, and then
+  remained silent for a few minutes. At length she said: "Bessie,
+  there are many things to consider about your going. You know how
+  I love to have you go for a ride on the water when I know you are
+  in good company. I also love to have you attend places of
+  interest to you, when I know there's nothing to defile your mind
+  or lead you from the path of purity. But, Daughter, there are
+  many things in the world that look beautiful to the eye but tend
+  to lead the soul astray. Do you think Jesus would go to a circus?
+  Do you think you could get any good should you go? You have
+  passed your tenth birthday. I think you're old enough to take
+  this matter to God in prayer and let him decide it for you. Go
+  and ask him to direct you to some passage of Scripture that will
+  open your understanding and help you to know what he wants you to
+  do."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, mama," said Bessie, who had felt strange about the
+  matter, "please tell me yes or no, and I'll say no more about
+  it."</p>
+
+  <p>"No, Bessie; it will, in many ways, be better for you to do as
+  I've said," answered her mother tenderly but decisively.</p>
+
+  <p>Very reluctantly Bessie left the room, and, taking her Bible,
+  whispered a prayer that she might open it to something that would
+  help her to decide. As she opened the book, her eyes fell upon
+  these words: "Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher, vanity of
+  vanities; all is vanity." Hurriedly she turned the pages,
+  thinking that she might perhaps have opened to that passage
+  anyway. Next she read, "I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will
+  prove thee with mirth; therefore, enjoy pleasure: and behold this
+  also is vanity." Returning to her mother, she read the words, but
+  ended by saying, "I might have turned to that anyway."</p>
+
+  <p>"Bessie," said Mrs. Worthington, "those words were written by
+  the wisest man the world has ever known, one who had the
+  privilege of enjoying every known pleasure under the sun. But
+  when he had tried them all, he sat down and wrote the words you
+  have just read, and also said, 'All is vanity and vexation of
+  spirit.' Now you have my view of the subject, and you have
+  Solomon's; but if you are still in doubt, go and pray."</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie was not satisfied. She slipped away the second time and
+  fell upon her knees. She cried, "O Lord, you once answered Gideon
+  with a sign; now please give me a sign and help me to know
+  whether I should stay at home or not. If you don't want me to go,
+  make it rain." Though simple and short, the prayer came from the
+  heart. She was determined to know God's will concerning her; and
+  to such God never turns a deaf ear.</p>
+
+  <p>The next morning she went to the door and looked at the sky.
+  The day was perfect. The sun was shining brightly, and a cool,
+  gentle breeze was blowing. Just one tiny cloud was in the sky,
+  and that seemed to be floating toward the sun. As she watched the
+  cloud, she saw it gradually increase in size, and at last down
+  came the rain in great drops. Nothing further was needed to
+  convince Bessie that God wanted her to remain at home; and now
+  her staying was no longer a cross to her.</p>
+
+  <p>She ran to her father and explained that God did not want her
+  to go, telling him about her prayer and its answer. Her childish
+  words and simple faith touched her father's proud heart, but all
+  he said was, "It's all right, Bessie; but you'll go down to the
+  landing and say good-by to your friends, won't you?"</p>
+
+  <p>As she told the girls why she could not go with them and
+  watched the gay party leave the shore, she was not sad, but
+  happy. She kept thinking how kind the dear Lord had been to
+  answer her prayer so wonderfully. When bedtime came, she rested
+  sweetly, having no wounded conscience to trouble or accuse
+  her.</p>
+
+  <p>But how about the excursion party? They had an ideal trip on
+  Lake Michigan, attended the show, and started to return. The
+  breeze that had been so gently blowing through the day began to
+  increase at sunset, and by the late hour of their return it had
+  become a gale. But not realizing the fierceness of the storm,
+  they started home. When they reached their own harbor, they found
+  that they could not enter with safety; so they anchored the boat
+  and spent the remainder of the night on the wildly tossing waves.
+  In the morning the wind gradually died away, and the weary,
+  seasick crowd made their way home.</p>
+
+  <p>When Bessie learned of their serious experience, she
+  appreciated more than ever the Lord's goodness in leading her to
+  stay at home.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_IX"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER IX.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    SELF-CONTROL.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was greatly encouraged when she saw what a
+  blessing her little girl had received from what appeared to be a
+  sore trial. She felt that the time was opportune to plant the
+  seed of self-control within the young heart. In a little while
+  she found an opportunity to begin.</p>
+
+  <p>"Bessie," she began when ready for the talk, "I have some
+  important things to tell you today. I wish to speak of your
+  future. There comes a time in the life of every girl when she
+  must change from childhood to womanhood; she can not always
+  remain a child. Until this time arrives, she is very dependent
+  and must lean entirely upon her parents' advice; but as her mind
+  begins to mature, she should be taught the necessity of weighing
+  matters well and of finding out God's will.</p>
+
+  <p>"Until the present time all you have done has been at the
+  suggestion of your parents, but it will be different in the
+  future. With your teaching, you are able to look to God for a
+  part of your direction. I shall continue to advise, and, if
+  necessary, to punish you; but I want you to take things to the
+  Lord in prayer and become satisfied within your heart that my
+  advice is according to the Word of God. You must not think you
+  haven't needed the teaching and the guidance you've had thus far
+  in life; and you'll need more careful training than you've ever
+  had. The point I want to impress upon your mind is that there's
+  an element within you, called self, that you must learn to
+  control. At times self will arise and cause you to feel that you
+  know some things even better than Mama. That is the time to
+  remember that Mama has had more experience than you; that her
+  judgment is better than yours; and that you must rely upon it
+  until God helps you to see a matter as she sees it. That was the
+  way you gained the blessing from that experience a few days ago.
+  In this way you will learn the lessons that are so important to
+  your future.</p>
+
+  <p>"There are many other things, my dear, that I want to talk to
+  you about soon, but you must be patient a little longer. In the
+  meantime, however, you may ask me any question you please, and
+  I'll answer you. Don't go to other girls with these things, but
+  come to me. I'm always glad to explain to you anything that seems
+  strange. When you're old enough to desire the knowledge and to
+  form the questions, you're old enough to receive an answer to
+  your questions. Come to me often: what seems strange to both of
+  us we can take to God in prayer, and let him teach us.</p>
+
+  <p>"Another thing you must do is to turn away from bad
+  associates. Avoid girls who say, 'I'll tell you something if
+  you'll promise not to tell your mother.' Remember that anything
+  you could not tell me would not be worth hearing; for it's sure
+  to be something unclean or vulgar. Conversing with such girls
+  won't help you to draw close to the Lord nor to know his will
+  concerning you. Much less would it help you to meditate upon the
+  pure and holy things of God. To elevate your soul, Bessie, you
+  must become serious, and seek only those companions whose
+  conversation is kind, gentle, and modest. I believe your desire
+  is to become more like Jesus and to prepare for heaven. So, my
+  child, meditate upon God, and you will grow in the grace and
+  knowledge of Christ. Misspent moments are so much of life and
+  character thrown away; be careful to use them all in God's
+  service.</p>
+
+  <p>"Here's a little poem you may learn. It may help you to
+  control self and to value your moments as you should."</p><br>
+
+  <center>
+    MY MOMENTS.
+  </center>
+
+  <div class="poem">
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Oh, my precious little moments,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Gliding now so swiftly by;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>May I each one spend for Jesus</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Ere I see them past me fly.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>May I lade each one with something</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>To be borne to God above,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Fill each full of deeds worth counting,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>That will prove my perfect love.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>For I would not have them enter</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Through those portals bright and fair</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Bearing not a single token</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>For my Master waiting there.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Golden moments, as you carry</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Trophies on your upward flight,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Take my character to Jesus;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>For I've kept it clean and white.</i></p>
+    </div>
+  </div>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_X"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER X.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    PARENTAL CONTROL.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was not only a prayerful mother, but a mother
+  wise in home government. Her wisdom, however, came from God. Many
+  a time she felt incapable of giving the advice her young daughter
+  needed; but she always remembered the scripture which reads, "If
+  any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all
+  men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given." After
+  she had spent a season in prayerful meditation, God would supply
+  the words and understanding. Thus she could say with the apostle
+  Paul, that her strength was made perfect in weakness, because her
+  dependence was in Christ.</p>
+
+  <p>O mothers, let us learn that God, the Author of home and
+  families, is always interested in the quality and the training of
+  the children. He does not create to cast aside. Neither does
+  anything come by chance. He wills that each tender human plant be
+  nourished and cherished until well fitted to fill its place and
+  calling in life. In childhood's dependent days, the parents
+  should be all to the children that they can not be to themselves.
+  It is not enough that your child be well fed and clothed; its
+  young mind must be guided into proper channels. What work is more
+  noble, more elevating than the teaching of the undeveloped mind?
+  Let not the duties of life nor the claims of society so press
+  upon you as to cause you to neglect your child's character or its
+  education in either temporal or spiritual matters.</p>
+
+  <p>As Solomon says, "Take away the little foxes that destroy the
+  vines." It is the little things passed carelessly by that grow
+  larger and larger, and stronger and stronger, within the young
+  heart until at last the unsuspecting parents awake in alarm to
+  behold their child in dreadful bondage. Beware! Guard your child
+  every moment it is under your care. You can not go as companion
+  to your child upon the street or to school, but your influence
+  may attend his every path through life. Do not be discouraged
+  should you hear him use a slang word, but take him at once and
+  tenderly tell him what slang phrases will lead to. Do not speak
+  harshly, but explain in the most loving manner possible. In this
+  way you will cultivate in him a distaste for impure language. A
+  pure, refined nature will be the result. Moreover, as that child
+  realizes through your faithful instruction, the true meaning of
+  sin, he will make you his confidant and will come to you rather
+  than seek the counsel of younger companions. Thus you will be
+  able to control his mind and to instil within his mind pure and
+  upright desires.</p>
+
+  <p>Within your home is the place to shine for God. There is no
+  greater field of labor. A Christian mother's influence among the
+  young can not be too highly valued. No one can fill your place in
+  the hearts of your children. Another can provide their temporal
+  needs, but nobody can take the place of Mother. No one else can
+  enter into the daily trials as you can. Nothing else can soothe
+  the wounded feelings as well as a tender embrace or a word from
+  mother. Be liberal, dear mothers, with these tokens of sympathy,
+  so sweet to your child; and think not for one moment that you are
+  not fulfilling God's plan concerning you or that moments thus
+  spent are wasted. It is only a short time at best that we can be
+  blessed with the privilege of instructing our children.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As Bessie grew older, Mrs. Worthington chose the twilight hour
+  for confidential talks with her daughter. Both looked forward to
+  these times with pleasure. Each evening after the daily duties
+  were ended, Bessie might be found sitting at her mother's feet.
+  Here she related the many happenings of the day and in turn
+  received instruction and advice from the one who held her
+  confidence. Here the mother taught her child the secret of true
+  devotion. She instructed Bessie that prayer, good reading, and
+  meditation are the keys to use to unlock God's great storehouse
+  of blessings. She pointed to the Bible as a pattern by which to
+  fashion one's life, pointing out to her the many scriptures
+  bearing upon different subjects and telling her how every modest,
+  earnest Christian ought to dress and act in order to adorn the
+  gospel of Christ. She encircled the word "purity" with such a
+  halo of glory that she awakened within the heart of her child a
+  determination ever to live so pure a life that she would not only
+  keep herself stainless but also help others to that sacred and
+  elevated plane.</p>
+
+  <p>Upon one of these occasions, when Bessie was in her twelfth
+  year, she said: "Mama, why don't we go to the meetings that are
+  being held at the schoolhouse on Sunday? The girls have asked me
+  several times, and I have told them I didn't know. They have a
+  minister from a distance, and he has taken the names of all who
+  want to join the church."</p>
+
+  <p>"That is a deep subject, my child," said Mrs. Worthington. "I
+  have often wished to explain to you my reasons for not attending
+  the public services held in our neighborhood by the different
+  denominations, but have feared you were still too young to
+  understand, for the matter seems hard even for some older persons
+  to comprehend. But I will tell you and trust the Lord to make it
+  plain.</p>
+
+  <p>"My parents taught me that it was my duty to attend religious
+  services at least once a week. This I did, and professed to be a
+  Christian until I was a young woman. I knew that I loved the Lord
+  and wanted to do right, but found that I could not always do
+  right in my own strength. I was daily doing things that
+  displeased the Lord. I became so troubled about my condition that
+  one day I went to the minister, and, telling him how I felt,
+  requested him to pray for me and to help me to get a real Bible
+  experience. In answer to my request, he only smiled and said,
+  'You are too particular. You might as well try to split a hair as
+  to try to live a holy life in this world.'</p>
+
+  <p>"As I returned home that day, I was very sad indeed. Oh, how
+  much I longed to be like Jesus, whom God had given me as an
+  example! I knew the Bible taught that if we expect to enter
+  heaven we must live a pure and holy life. I was determined to do
+  this&mdash;but how was I to do it? To whom could I go for help?
+  Most of the church-members were so worldly-minded they thought of
+  little else than a good time, and the few spiritual ones were
+  afraid to tell how they felt, for fear of their minister's
+  displeasure.</p>
+
+  <p>"At last I decided to seek from God and his Word what my soul
+  was longing for. As I sought, I began to see I had been deceived.
+  I found that as God looked upon mankind, he could see only two
+  classes of people&mdash;the righteous and sinners; and I saw that
+  I was a sinner.</p>
+
+  <p>"By reading the twelfth chapter of First Corinthians, I
+  learned that Christ's body is the church; that to become a member
+  of the church my name must be written in heaven; that every
+  Christian in the world is my brother or sister in Christ; the
+  Lamb's book of life is the only class-book in which our names
+  need to be recorded; and that our names are removed only because
+  of our turning again to sin. To me these thoughts were both new
+  and marvelous. I saw that every saved person in the different
+  denominations is a Christian and a member of God's true church,
+  but I knew that such persons were unable to worship God aright
+  for fear of displeasing their ministers or of breaking some of
+  the church-rules. And when I read in 2 Cor. 6:14 that we are not
+  to be unequally yoked together with unbelievers, I felt that I
+  must come out and stand alone. This I promised God to do at any
+  cost, and asked him to give me a Bible experience. He answered my
+  prayer; and I was so happy that I walked the floor for a long
+  time, clapping my hands and praising God.</p>
+
+  <p>"Because of the course I had taken many misunderstood me and
+  thought I was partially insane. Even your dear papa thinks so
+  still, but I dare not grieve God by going back.</p>
+
+  <p>"I have had some dreams that have greatly encouraged me. The
+  first was given while I was wondering why I could not find any
+  one who believed the whole Bible. I seemed to be standing in a
+  meeting-house; the service was ended and nearly every one had
+  gone home. I noticed a woman in great distress. Going to her, I
+  found that she had a very sore hand and that she was alone, with
+  no one to help her home through the darkness. With her consent, I
+  quickly picked her up in my arms and carried her safely through a
+  long, dark, narrow passage. As we passed along, I spoke words of
+  encouragement to her. Suddenly we came out into a large open
+  field carpeted with flowers, and there I laid her down, saying,
+  'How nicely we have gotten along alone.' Then I awoke.</p>
+
+  <p>"For some time I could not see the meaning of the dream. At
+  last I understood that the afflicted woman was I myself and that
+  the Savior wanted to carry me through the dark and dangerous way
+  of life alone.</p>
+
+  <p>"At another time I dreamed I was riding on a locomotive. Again
+  I was alone. The seat that I was sitting on was so small I had to
+  be very careful lest I be injured by the machinery around me. I
+  didn't think of danger while the train was in motion; but as it
+  drew up at a certain station, I began to consider my position.
+  The thought came, 'What will people think of me? They will
+  certainly say I am stealing a ride.' I remembered my ticket, and,
+  placing my hand upon it, I felt satisfied. At the next station I
+  could see inside of the passenger coaches. I had a good view of
+  the passengers in one of the coaches, and I recognized the
+  prominent members of the denomination I had lately left. As they
+  sat in their cushioned seats, carelessly talking to one another,
+  they all seemed happy and contented. My own condition then arose
+  before me, and I felt lonely indeed and thought, 'I will step
+  down from my little seat and enter the coach with the rest.' I
+  was just about to do this&mdash;even had my hand upon the door
+  knob&mdash;when I realized that I had left my dress in the little
+  seat, and again I awoke.</p>
+
+  <p>"The dream seemed very plain in every way. My ticket was my
+  experience and title to heaven, and the dress left up in the tiny
+  seat was the robe of Christ's righteousness. While alone and
+  contented, I was all right, but to return to the denomination
+  would mean to leave both robe and title behind.</p>
+
+  <p>"Still, God has given me some devoted Christian friends, who
+  are willing to live as the Bible directs, and with these I
+  worship as you know, dear, in our little weekly prayer-meetings.
+  I trust that some day your father will see and will understand me
+  better, and that we can worship God together. But I will be
+  faithful even though I should be forced to walk alone.</p>
+
+  <p>"Now, dear, I trust you can see that the true church is
+  Christ's body and that every soul is a member as long as he
+  continues to live a pure and holy life. Whether he is a member of
+  some sect or not, sin will cut him off; and if he continues to
+  profess as I did, he is a hypocrite in God's sight. 'Come out
+  from among them and be ye separate' is a command that every
+  Christian should obey."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    THE BEAUTIFUL SECRET.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>The mother's talks about her own Christian experience enabled
+  Bessie to understand the beautiful secret of salvation&mdash;an
+  influence that was to beautify her character and to mold her
+  whole subsequent career. Bessie's developing mind was able to
+  grasp firmly the golden thread of religious truth, which,
+  unraveling from the tangle of sectism, had guided her faithful
+  mother into the fulness of divine truth.</p>
+
+  <p>Thus it was&mdash;</p>
+
+  <div class="poem">
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>In the gentle hush of evening,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>When the sun sank in the west;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>When the little bird was nestling</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>In its quiet, sheltered nest;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>When the stars were brightly shining</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>From the lofty sky above,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Bessie learned the lovely secret</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Of her Savior's perfect love.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>In the twilight's deep'ning shadows,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>At her loving mother's feet,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Sat she often on a hassock,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Hearing words of counsel sweet.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Sacred season was this hour</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To the twain in waiting there,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Each the burden of the other</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Sought to know and ofttimes share.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>As the loving mother listened</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To the record of the day,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>To the questions of her daughter&mdash;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Spoken oft in childish way,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>She in tenderness instructed</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>With the wisdom of the Lord,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Gained by prayer and careful study</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Of his precious, holy Word.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>There the character was strengthened;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Bessie's heart was made to feel</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Greater love for her Creator,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>For his work a deeper zeal.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>And she saw God's plan for pardon,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To the feet of Jesus came,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>And was able, like her mother,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Full salvation then to claim.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Ah! fond mother, learn the secret</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>That will win thy children dear;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Draw them gently to thy bosom,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Ever seek their hearts to cheer.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>From thy home exclude all worry,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Fretful cares, and sad'ning gloom;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>But God's sunshine bid a welcome,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Let it shine in ev'ry room</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>As a spring within a desert,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thou mayst water each plant small;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>But the plant itself must blossom&mdash;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thou canst tend it, that is all.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Tiny human plants will flourish</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>In an atmosphere like this,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>And will yield good, fruitful blossoms</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>That will bring true happiness</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Children always thirst for knowledge,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>And ere long 'tis surely gained;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>If not from a faithful mother,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>'Tis from evil source obtained.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Blameless never is the mother</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Who will not the trouble take</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>To instruct her precious children,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Close companions of them make</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Like a florist wise and zealous,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Guard thou well each blossom fair,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Lest the perfume and the sweetness</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Vanish for the lack of care.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Choose thou then some place at even</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>When the daily toils are done,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Where life's many cares and blessings</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>May be numbered one by one.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>God will give thee wisdom, mother,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To supply thine ev'ry need,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>As thou givest wholesome knowledge,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>When the childish voices plead.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Their young minds, so pure, unfolding,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Will reveal the secret fair</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>That will prove how great the value</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Of a mother's love and pray'r.</i></p>
+    </div>
+  </div>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XIII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    BLESSING AND TRIAL.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Now that Bessie had learned the secret of a Christian life,
+  she longed to see others enjoying the love of God. She felt the
+  greatest burden for her father. Oh, if she could see him enjoying
+  salvation! She often poured out her desire in prayer, with
+  childlike trust and confidence. God heard her prayers.</p>
+
+  <p>One morning as she was passing the barn on her way to school,
+  she heard some strange sounds. Peering through a window, she
+  beheld a sight that made her wonder if she saw aright. There
+  stood her beloved father, great tears streaming from his eyes,
+  his countenance beaming with heavenly peace and joy, and praises
+  to God pouring from his lips. What did it mean? In a weak voice
+  she said, "Papa dear, what is the matter!"</p>
+
+  <p>Turning he exclaimed: "Oh, Bessie, God has saved me! I am so
+  happy! Run quick and tell your mother!" Bessie ran to the house
+  to tell the glad news, but her father was there nearly as soon,
+  saying, "Oh, I'm saved! You're right, wife. I know now that
+  you're right, and I see things just as you do! I'm so happy and
+  feel so different. Oh, help me to praise the dear Lord."</p>
+
+  <p>Let us leave them in their happiness and follow Bessie to
+  school. Her father's words rang as sweet music in her ears. How
+  good the dear Lord was to answer her in her father's behalf! She
+  felt that no good thing would be withheld from them that walk
+  uprightly. But Bessie was soon to meet a severe and unexpected
+  trial.</p>
+
+  <p>Her mother had made her a school-dress. Though neat and
+  pretty, it was of a material commonly used for men's shirts.
+  Bessie knew this, but thought nothing of it until some of her
+  schoolmates gathered round her at recess and said, "O girls,
+  Bessie has a new dress like her father's shirt." Another said,
+  "Perhaps it is his shirt." The remarks were certainly unkind, and
+  Bessie felt them keenly; but she laughed and said, "Yes; I know
+  it." Nothing more was said. But oh, that dress! How she disliked
+  to wear it! At times she could hardly start to school with it on;
+  but then she would think, "I know Mama thought it was pretty when
+  she got it for me; and I thought it was nice until the girls made
+  those remarks. I will try to like it for Mama's sake."</p>
+
+  <p>With such thoughts in her mind she returned home from school
+  one evening. When she reached the house, she saw that no one was
+  at home; but, knowing where the key was kept, she easily gained
+  admittance. Finding herself alone in the house, she thought: "Now
+  is the time to learn to like my dress, and I'm going to do it.
+  Mother shall not know how I have felt about it." She hastened
+  into the parlor and stood before a large mirror.</p>
+
+  <p>Now, Bessie knew that she did not have a pretty face, and she
+  had gained the victory over that; but she did want to feel that
+  her clothes looked well on her, and that was the battle she meant
+  to fight that evening. As she slowly turned from side to side
+  viewing herself intently, she liked the dress better and better.
+  At last she thought it very pretty and becoming, and she knelt
+  down and thanked God for giving it to her. As she changed it for
+  her work-dress, she wondered why she had allowed the children's
+  remarks to affect her so much and had not appreciated the dress
+  more. No more remarks were ever made about the dress, and Bessie
+  continued to admire it until it was worn out. No one but herself
+  and the Lord knew of the struggle through which she passed.</p>
+
+  <p>Through the trial concerning the dress, Bessie learned several
+  valuable lessons: first, the less notice one takes of unkindness,
+  the better; second, God's grace can keep in time of temptation;
+  third, one should not murmur because of persecution; and, last,
+  and best of all, God usually gives his children some great
+  blessing before a severe trial, and the close relationship
+  between the two makes them almost one in effect. She could now
+  say with real appreciation:</p>
+
+  <div class="poem">
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>A little trial often tries,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>But proves a blessing in disguise.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Just as the rough rock holds the gem,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>The trial holds my diadem</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+  </div>
+
+  <p>But a still greater trial was awaiting her. Bessie had a
+  thirst for knowledge. She was doing well in school and wanted to
+  do better. Instead of taking exercise during the daily
+  intermissions, she often spent them in hard study. Her system,
+  naturally frail, could not stand the strain. She contracted a
+  fever and for three months despaired of life. In the third month
+  dropsy of the chest set in; and, on account of smothering spells,
+  she had to be bolstered up in bed with pillows.</p>
+
+  <p>One day as Mrs. Worthington stood beside her child she felt
+  that God wanted to heal her. Kneeling beside the bed, she prayed,
+  "Dear Lord, heal my child, and grant that she may be spared to
+  work for thee." From that time Bessie began to improve. She had
+  no more smothering spells, and before long she was well and
+  strong.</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie found a blessing even in this trial. She saw that, had
+  she been able to push ahead as she had desired, she might have
+  lost sight of Jesus, and she now understood that her Savior cared
+  for her body as well as for her soul.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XIV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    THE SURPRISE PARTY.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As soon as Bessie was strong enough to go out, she was invited
+  to stay all night with a friend. She supposed she was to be the
+  only guest, but found that a surprise had been planned for her. A
+  goodly number of her friends and schoolmates were present.</p>
+
+  <p>The young folks spent a few hours very pleasantly in playing
+  games, and Bessie enjoyed that part of the evening very much. But
+  late in the evening some one proposed dancing, and the boys began
+  to choose their partners. A very strange feeling came over Bessie
+  when some one asked her to dance. She shook her head and said,
+  "No; I do not know how to dance." Several urged her to try, but
+  she said, "No; I would rather not."</p>
+
+  <p>She was the only one that did not dance. As she sat watching
+  the others, she wondered if it were right for boys and girls to
+  act as these were acting. She had never heard that it is wrong to
+  dance, but it did not look or seem right to her. She decided that
+  on reaching home she would ask her mother.</p>
+
+  <p>When Bessie got home the next morning, her mother asked,
+  "Well, dear, did you have a good time?"</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, yes," answered Bessie; "most of the time I did." Then she
+  told about the surprise party and about all that had happened,
+  and concluded by asking, "Mama, is it right to dance?"</p>
+
+  <p>"I have been thinking for a long time, Bessie, that I ought to
+  have a talk with you about dancing and tell you of some of the
+  evils to which it leads," answered her mother. "Dancing is an
+  amusement that many girls consider very attractive. When asked
+  why they think so, they hardly know what to answer, but generally
+  speak of the music and the graceful motions."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, Mama, the motions they made at the party last night were
+  anything but graceful. I know you wouldn't have allowed me to do
+  as they did, and I don't want to. It wasn't modest. I never want
+  to go to a dance again."</p>
+
+  <p>"I'm so glad, Bessie, you feel as you do about dancing; but,
+  dear, to those who learn, there is something very fascinating
+  about it. Some girls have said they would rather dance than eat;
+  and, with a great many, I believe it is true.</p>
+
+  <p>"Men of low character and of evil inclinations regard the
+  dance-hall as a favorable place to betray unsuspecting girls and
+  frequent it for that very purpose. Their victims are usually the
+  sweetest and most trusting girls. Their beauty attracts
+  undesirable attention, and their ignorance makes them an easy
+  prey. O Bessie, there are so many unprincipled men in the world
+  who love to win and betray the confidence of young innocent
+  girls.</p>
+
+  <p>"Philosophers tell us that 'perfect happiness comes only from
+  a pleasure attractive to our moral nature in its purity and
+  perfection. If we delight in pleasures of the other sort, our
+  moral natures are degraded.'</p>
+
+  <p>"You have noticed the immodest positions taken by those who
+  dance, and you feel a deep sense of shame for them. Should you
+  try to partake of their pleasure, your moral nature would be
+  degraded, and you would in time lose that sense of shame and be
+  as eager for the pleasure as any of the others. Thus yielding,
+  one step at a time, you would cease to look upon the dance as
+  immodest and would find real enjoyment in it, and perhaps would
+  be led into greater sin. It is in this way that many girls lose
+  their virtue. Then they are shunned by their old associates, who
+  are really but a step higher in morality. Forsaken by friends,
+  hopeless as to their future, deserted even by those who wrought
+  their downfall, these poor girls sink lower and lower, and lead
+  lives of shame and misery.</p>
+
+  <p>"No spiritual-minded person will take part in worldly
+  amusements, for he can not enjoy them. Christians who indulge in
+  dancing turn away from God and seek fellowship with the world.
+  Such are sure to lose the grace of God from their hearts."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    LEROY'S HEALING.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Bessie's little brother, Leroy, now past five years of age,
+  was far from being rugged. Though he had a full, round face and a
+  large head, his body was emaciated and did not develop properly.
+  He could go only a few steps without falling. He had fainting
+  spells, which gradually increased in frequency and duration.</p>
+
+  <p>Many times as Mrs. Worthington looked at her poor little boy,
+  she lifted her heart to God in earnest prayer to know his will
+  concerning the child. Many friends remarked that she would never
+  be able to bring him up; but she knew that, if for the best, God
+  could heal the child and give him right development.</p>
+
+  <p>At last his illness became very serious. One night his head
+  was burning with fever, while his body was cold and clammy. It
+  seemed but a question of time until he would pass away.</p>
+
+  <p>As Mrs. Worthington looked at her child, she remembered the
+  words, "Man's extremity is God's opportunity," and "The prayer of
+  faith shall save the sick." She wondered why God had brought them
+  to her mind. She began to ask herself: "Do I believe that God can
+  heal that child? If it is God's will to take him, can I submit?"
+  To the first question she answered, "Yes; God made him," and to
+  the second, "Thy will be done, O God." Then she breathed an
+  earnest prayer for his healing. The sweet assurance came that her
+  prayer was answered; that the child would grow well and strong.
+  She felt that she could lie down by his side and trust him in the
+  hands of the One who gave him.</p>
+
+  <p>She placed a wet cloth on his head, lay down by his side, and
+  knew no more until the next morning. Both slept soundly. When she
+  awoke, she saw that the child was breathing naturally and that
+  the fever was entirely gone. Then she fully realized that God had
+  healed him. With a grateful heart she thanked the Lord for his
+  tender love. It was indeed true that Leroy was well. About ten
+  o'clock his mother carried him to the lake and, having Bessie to
+  row the boat, gave him a pleasant boat-ride. The fever never
+  returned; his head stopped growing; and he became a strong,
+  healthy boy. The friends who had thought that he would surely die
+  said they could not understand the change that had taken place,
+  but Mrs. Worthington understood, and gave God all the praise.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XVI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    EXPLAINING THE DIVINE LIFE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>After Bessie's conversion Mrs. Worthington's talks to her were
+  often on the subject of the divine life within&mdash;how to care
+  for it and nourish it, so that it might not die nor become
+  blighted. She sometimes compared the young Christian's experience
+  to that of a new-born babe. "You know," said she, "the little one
+  must be carefully fed, and tenderly guarded against everything
+  harmful. Even a slight breeze blowing upon its little body, if
+  unprotected, might result in death. But as the child grows older
+  and stronger, it gradually becomes accustomed to the rude
+  elements about it and can, with comparative safety, be brought in
+  contact with them. The Christ life, new-born in the human heart,
+  is just as sensitive and needs the same tender care. Guard it
+  carefully, Bessie. It must be constantly nourished by prayer and
+  the Word of God. Seek to become established by the grace of
+  sanctification; then you will be better able to meet temptation
+  and persecution. Christ is your shepherd, and he wants to lead
+  you, his lamb, into green pastures and beside still waters.</p>
+
+  <p>"A person may profess to be a Christian, Bessie; but unless he
+  has a change of heart and affections, he is what the Bible terms
+  a wolf in sheep's clothing, and not one of the gentle lambs of
+  the Savior's fold. The profession does not amount to anything
+  when the heart is full of envy, hatred, jealousy, love of self,
+  and a drawing toward the world. A person with a profession only,
+  may appear for a time to be quite lamb-like; but sooner or later
+  the old nature will manifest itself, for it can not be hidden
+  long."</p>
+
+  <p>"I think, Mama," said Bessie, "I understand you&mdash;but you
+  spoke of the experience of sanctification; please tell me what
+  that means."</p>
+
+  <p>As briefly as possible, the mother explained that the second
+  cleansing of the heart takes away that evil nature which causes
+  man to want to disobey God.</p>
+
+  <p>Not long after this talk Bessie had an experience in school
+  that helped her to comprehend her mother's words. To be put back
+  in her studies was hard, but to have to give up her old teacher,
+  to whom she was strongly attached, was harder still. Her regret
+  on the latter account, however, was of short duration; for her
+  new teacher was even more lovable than the old one, and, best of
+  all, she was a Christian. She and Bessie not only got along well,
+  but became warm friends and enjoyed sweet fellowship in the
+  Spirit. One day, however, something happened that severely tested
+  their love, but, in the end, only deepened it.</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie's seatmate, a girl named Nora, about Bessie's own age,
+  was very mischievous. She did so many things deserving punishment
+  that the teacher was often perplexed to know what course to take
+  with her. Some one has said that "misery likes company." This was
+  certainly true of Nora. She knew that the teacher and Bessie were
+  good friends, and she longed to see Bessie get into trouble and
+  receive some punishment. Knowing that Bessie tried hard to obey
+  the rules of the school, Nora saw that she should have to lay
+  some cunning plan or she should not realize her wish. She began
+  to watch for an opportunity.</p>
+
+  <p>A streamlet ran past the schoolhouse. While Bessie and Nora
+  were playing near it one day, Bessie fell down in some mud. Just
+  as she fell, the school-bell rang and they had to hurry back to
+  their lessons. Fearing that some of the mud might have splattered
+  on her face, Bessie asked if her face was clean. Nora answered
+  quickly, "Oh yes; do hurry up." Nora felt that her chance had
+  come, and she made up her mind to get her seatmate into trouble,
+  if possible. Hurrying into the schoolroom, she whispered to one
+  of the boys, telling him to ask Bessie as she passed what was the
+  matter with her face, but to say nothing more. When Bessie came
+  down the aisle, she saw this boy looking at her with an amused
+  expression, and gave him close attention. As she passed him, he
+  whispered, "Bessie, what is the matter with your face?" and then
+  turned quickly away. Fully convinced that her face was dirty,
+  Bessie sat down very much ashamed. Nora knew how her seatmate
+  would feel and prepared herself for the question that she was
+  sure would be asked. As it was time for the writing-lesson, she
+  stuck her finger in inks of different colors; and, when Bessie
+  asked where her face was dirty, she quickly pointed out the
+  places, each time leaving a large spot of ink. Bessie, wholly
+  unconscious of the ink-spots on her face, thought what a dreadful
+  sight she must be, and asked permission of the teacher to wash.
+  When the teacher turned, she saw, not mud, but ugly ink-spots.
+  Supposing that Bessie had put them there, she shook her head. Her
+  surprise was great. She felt that she ought to do something about
+  it; but, being undecided, she turned away.</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie became much worried; for many eyes were turned upon
+  her, and some of the pupils were laughing. She wanted to hide,
+  but could not, and kept wondering why a little mud should cause
+  so much amusement. One girl, Anna, tried secretly to pass her a
+  wet handkerchief, but this Nora quickly caught from her and hid.
+  Poor Bessie was now ready to cry, and again asked permission to
+  wash her face; but her teacher answered, "No; you must go to
+  writing."</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie naturally had a high temper and was inclined to be
+  stubborn when she felt that she was being imposed upon; but she
+  had always held her temper in subjection, as she knew it to be
+  wrong to give way to anger. On this occasion, however, it seemed
+  impossible to control herself. When the teacher said, "Go to
+  writing," Bessie obeyed; but she was so angry that she hardly
+  knew what she was doing. Suddenly she thought, "If I daub a lot
+  of ink on my face, perhaps she will let me wash"; and she rubbed
+  some on with her finger. But alas! this did not work as she had
+  expected. The teacher saw her put it on and concluded that she
+  had put the other on also; so she said, "Bessie, you may go and
+  sit in my chair." As she said this, all the stubbornness in
+  Bessie's nature arose. She did not move; and when the teacher
+  said sternly, "Are you going to obey?" she shook her head and
+  caught hold of the seat. At this moment Nora whispered, "If that
+  were me, she'd make me go." The teacher heard the words and
+  looked first at Nora and then at Bessie. She hesitated for a
+  moment, then walked over to Bessie, took her by the shoulders and
+  jerked her from the seat, and then dragged her up to the chair
+  and set her down, telling her to study. "I have no book,"
+  retorted Bessie. The teacher ordered one brought, and, leaving
+  her, went to her other duties.</p>
+
+  <p>What a moment for Bessie! Too angry to study, she sat there
+  thinking of the dreadful scene she had created. Her heart burned
+  with shame. Oh! what could she do?</p>
+
+  <p>Anna, the girl who had tried to hand her the wet handkerchief,
+  had noticed all of Nora's actions and had determined to help
+  Bessie, if possible. On pretext of looking up a word in the
+  dictionary, Anna went forward, laid a wet rag where Bessie could
+  reach it, and returned to her seat. Bessie eagerly took the rag
+  and rubbed her face. She was surprised to see the different
+  colors of ink appear upon it. How they came to be there she did
+  not know; but she did not think about them long, for something
+  far worse began to trouble her. She knew that she had lost the
+  grace of God out of her heart. Oh, how wretched she felt! Would
+  God forgive her again? Yes; she knew he would; for she had read
+  that, "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and
+  saveth such as be of a contrite spirit." This thought was a great
+  comfort to her. But, oh! what about her teacher? How could her
+  teacher ever love and respect her again? She would ask her pardon
+  as soon as possible, but would she forgive her?</p>
+
+  <p>It was not long until the teacher went to her desk for
+  something, but she took no notice of Bessie. Beaching out very
+  timidly, Bessie touched her and said, "O Miss Harrington, won't
+  you please forgive me?" But the teacher pretended not to hear
+  her, and turned quickly away. The next thought was, "What will
+  Mama think and say? Oh, if only she did not have to know about
+  it!" With these thoughts coursing through her mind, Bessie was
+  unable to study; and by the time school closed, she was in great
+  distress.</p>
+
+  <p>After closing the school, the teacher paid no attention to
+  Bessie for some time; but when she had finished her evening
+  duties and all the pupils except Nora, Anna, and Bessie had left
+  the building, she turned to Bessie, fell upon her knees, and
+  threw both arms around her. Bessie sobbed, "Oh, please forgive
+  me! please forgive me!" For some time the teacher made no reply,
+  and Nora muttered, "Catch me asking her forgiveness!" At last the
+  teacher, looking up through tearful eyes, said, "Bessie dear, it
+  is you who must forgive me. I should have been a better example
+  to you this afternoon. Let us pray." Then two sad hearts were
+  lifted to God in humble, earnest prayer that he would forgive
+  them for Jesus' sake. God heard their prayers, gave back the
+  sweet peace that they had lost out of their souls, and bound
+  their hearts together in Christian love and fellowship.</p>
+
+  <p>Nora went her way, provoked with her seatmate and angry
+  because the joke had not worked quite as she had expected. Anna,
+  slipping her arm through Bessie's walked home with her and told
+  her all that Nora had done. Bessie was surprised. She understood
+  why things had taken the course they had; but, knowing it was
+  really Satan, who had been trying to overthrow her own soul, she
+  did not censure her seatmate.</p>
+
+  <p>Her only thought now was of how sad her mother would feel.
+  Bessie decided that the occurrence was too dreadful to tell her
+  about and that she would keep it a secret. This was her decision
+  until she saw her mother coming down the walk to meet her. Having
+  always told her mother everything, Bessie did not know how it
+  would seem to keep a secret from her; so when they met, she
+  forgot all about her decision and began at once to tell her
+  mother all that had happened.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington listened very carefully to Bessie's story and
+  then said: "Bessie, I am so glad you have told me all this
+  yourself, and have held nothing back nor blamed Nora. God will
+  take care of the matter, and I believe that your lesson is a
+  lasting one. And now, my child; you can see your great need of
+  sanctification. Had that ugliness and stubbornness been taken out
+  of your heart, you would have been spared much suffering. I trust
+  that you will earnestly seek and obtain this grace."</p>
+
+  <p>It was well that Bessie told her mother everything, for Nora
+  did all in her power to circulate the story and to make it as bad
+  as possible. Nora's mother, thinking it best to tell Mrs.
+  Worthington about Bessie's misbehavior, made a special call at
+  the Worthington home for that purpose. Bessie's mother listened
+  to what her neighbor's story was and then smilingly replied,
+  "Yes, I know all about it; Bessie told me before she reached
+  home. I am so glad that I have the confidence of my child. We are
+  companions; I love her company, and she loves mine." These words
+  sounded strange to the visitor. She could not understand. "It
+  seems strange," said she, "that Bessie loves to stay at home and
+  to be with you so much. Doesn't she ever get lonesome? Nora is
+  restless and tired when she has to stay at home, and says I am
+  too old for her."</p>
+
+  <p>Ah! here was the secret of the difference between the two
+  girls. One mother had allowed her daughter to choose her own
+  company and had not inquired into their plays and talks; whereas
+  the other knew the secrets of her child's heart and could advise
+  and instruct her in any matter. Between Bessie and her mother
+  there was a tie of which Nora and her mother knew nothing. "Train
+  up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old he will
+  not depart from it." Prov. 22:6.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XVII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    TEMPTATIONS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>At Christmas time Bessie received the following letter from
+  one of her friends:</p>
+
+  <div class="blkquot">
+    <p>Dear Bessie:</p>
+
+    <p>I have long wondered what to send you as a Christmas gift,
+    and it seemed a hard problem to solve. I fear you will wonder
+    at what I am sending; but, knowing that you are nearly thirteen
+    years old and must be growing very fast, I have decided to send
+    you a corset. I hope you will like and appreciate it enough to
+    wear it.</p>
+
+    <p>Lovingly your friend,</p>
+
+    <p>Lizzie.</p>
+  </div>
+
+  <p>On receiving the package, Bessie looked at the corset and
+  said, "Mama, shall I wear it?"</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington looked anxiously at her daughter; for she
+  knew that Bessie would have strong temptations along this line,
+  as she did not have a pretty form, and was growing rapidly. She
+  had hoped, however, that the subject would not be mentioned for
+  some time. Silently she breathed a little prayer for wisdom to
+  answer the question, and then said:</p>
+
+  <p>"Bessie, God used great wisdom in forming your body. He knew
+  just what shape it would have to be in order to perform its
+  natural functions. Do you think it would be proper to try to
+  change it? Do you wonder why something snug around your waist
+  could be harmful? Listen, dear, and I will tell you. Let us take
+  the corset and examine it. It certainly looks very innocent and
+  pretty, but just see how stiff it is. These steel ribs and this
+  whalebone make it more like a piece of harness than anything else
+  I can think of. When worn about the waist, it produces pressure
+  upon the vital organs and thus deforms the body. These long
+  strings at the back are often drawn so tightly as to cause the
+  misplacement and derangement of those organs whose functions are
+  most necessary to health and happiness. As a consequence, many a
+  woman has to suffer long years of torture.</p>
+
+  <p>"Many women say they don't wear the corset tight, and think,
+  therefore, that no harm results; but, let one of them put a
+  snug-fitting bandage on any other part of the body, and she will
+  see how quickly the muscles of that part will weaken and decrease
+  in size. Should a young woman who has never worn a corset attempt
+  to wear one about her waist as loosely as they are ever worn, she
+  would, if honest with herself, cast it aside as an abominable
+  thing.</p>
+
+  <p>"The reason why Lizzie wants you to begin wearing a corset
+  while you're young is that, if you'll bind your waist before
+  you've reached your full growth, your waist will never attain the
+  size it would have attained under natural conditions. In other
+  words, you would be deformed."</p>
+
+  <p>"I don't think I shall ever wear it, Mama, if that's the
+  effect it has upon the body. If God takes such particular care of
+  us that he numbers our very hairs, he must be very much grieved
+  to see any one put a corset about her waist."</p>
+
+  <p>"I'm glad for your decision, my child, but you'll soon meet
+  greater temptations. Some mothers don't think it worth while to
+  warn their girls of the dangers that threaten them in regard to
+  love and marriage; but I want to see you, Bessie, fully prepared,
+  so that you may safely pass this dangerous period.</p>
+
+  <p>"Most girls at your age have some strange idea regarding love.
+  In the schoolroom, perhaps, a girl notices some particular boy
+  who has a winning way. At first she simply thinks he is nice; is
+  glad to see him promoted, receive honor, etc. Gradually her mind
+  becomes filled with queries concerning his opinion of her. She
+  dares not own that she loves to appear well in his eyes, but it
+  is true nevertheless. During his absence she misses him, and upon
+  his return her heart beats with emotion. If he pays her little
+  attentions, she dwells upon them until she becomes eager for
+  them. Her playmates notice a change in her, for she can no longer
+  hide her feelings. She blushes when mention is made of her
+  preference for him. The couple seek to be together as much as
+  possible, and are soon meeting together secretly. When reproved,
+  they may promise not to let the thing happen again, only to
+  repeat it in a short time. The secrecy of these meetings make
+  them more enjoyable, and their length and frequency are
+  unconsciously increased.</p>
+
+  <p>"Satan, who is never asleep upon such occasions, makes reproof
+  his companion to push them forward. Friendly warnings are
+  unheeded; and if force be used to prevent the meetings, the
+  couple may think of eloping. They may not have thought of
+  marriage until this time; but when the girl realizes what she has
+  done, she consents to the hasty marriage. Such marriages, Bessie,
+  seldom result happily.</p>
+
+  <p>"The place to stop was at the beginning. She should have
+  gained control of her wandering affections. Young girls who
+  lavish their love upon boys of their own age or older lose relish
+  for other things, and their minds become dwarfed and weakened by
+  being taxed with thoughts that are not fit for them to consider
+  at so early an age.</p>
+
+  <p>"It is all right to form in your mind an ideal for your
+  affections, if you don't have in mind some particular person; but
+  your common sense should be your guide. Two rowboats passing each
+  other upon the water are all right as long as they are far enough
+  apart; but let these boats drift or be guided too close together,
+  and there is great danger of a collision. Your affections are to
+  you what the rudder is to the boat, and reason is your pilot.
+  They will guide you aright if you will let them."</p>
+
+  <p>"Mama," said Bessie, "there's a girl in our school, only a few
+  months older than I, that says she is to be married in a short
+  time. The man she's to marry is nearly twice as old as she is,
+  too. We told her that she ought to wait until she wore long
+  dresses before she talked about getting married. Don't you think
+  that is dreadful?"</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes, dear, it is. No girl should ever be married while she is
+  so young."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    ANSWERS TO PRAYER.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>During the summer Bessie's cousin John and a boy friend came
+  to visit her. They spent many pleasant hours on the lake. One day
+  while they were about two miles from home, a fierce storm arose.
+  They noticed the sky growing dark and tried very hard to reach
+  home; but, when still some distance from the shore, they could
+  see that instead of making any headway they were drifting before
+  the wind.</p>
+
+  <p>It was a serious moment. As the great waves dashed up over
+  them, each adding to the amount of water in the boat, Bessie
+  looked first at her cousin toiling away at the oars, the great
+  drops of perspiration coursing down his face, then at their
+  friend nearly wild with terror, and then at the western sky.
+  "John," said she to her cousin, "I believe that's rain coming
+  toward us." Until then the boy, who was a little older than
+  Bessie, had been brave; but as he turned to look, his face
+  blanched with terror, and he said, "Bessie, if that is rain, it
+  will certainly sink our boat; for, see, it is nearly half full of
+  water now."</p>
+
+  <p>The situation was certainly critical, but Bessie felt that it
+  was not the time to despair. She remembered that in olden times
+  Jesus had calmed the sea. Believing that he could still do the
+  same, she prayed for help from heaven. Then, encouraging her
+  cousin to do his best, she, assisted by their friend, began to
+  bale out the water as rapidly as they could. In a few moments the
+  great drops of rain were dashing down upon them. Without
+  speaking, all kept at their work for what seemed to them an hour,
+  but which was really but a short time. Suddenly it ceased
+  raining; and, looking about them, they saw that the lake was
+  perfectly quiet&mdash;not a ripple could be seen. With trembling
+  voice Bessie said, "John, God must have sent the rain to quiet
+  the water, for I asked him to help us." It was a very wet but
+  thankful crowd that reached home that night.</p>
+
+  <p>In the spring that Bessie was fourteen years old, her father
+  sold the beautiful home where she had spent so many happy days,
+  and bought a tract of land in a dense wood farther up the lake.
+  On account of the dense forest, the place appeared very dismal.
+  As the purchaser of their old home wanted possession as soon as
+  possible, Mr. Worthington had time to build only a barn before
+  removing his family. In this building they lived during the first
+  summer. Though these circumstances were discouraging, the
+  Worthingtons tried hard to be brave. By fall a house was ready
+  for them.</p>
+
+  <p>Many good things were lacking in this new forest home; but God
+  knew this, and he put it into the hearts of friends and neighbors
+  to supply the family with fruit and vegetables and also chickens.
+  So generously were these supplied that there was no lack.</p>
+
+  <p>During the winter following much wood was cut, hauled, and
+  piled out along the roadside in front of the house; but still
+  there was standing timber nearly everywhere one might look, and
+  to the south and west it extended for many miles.</p>
+
+  <p>The next summer Bessie learned how dangerous an enemy a large
+  forest could become. There was so little rain during the hot
+  months that things became dry and brittle. One day she heard the
+  cry of "Fire! Fire!" Looking away to the southwest, she beheld a
+  sight that made her feel faint with fear. The woods were ablaze,
+  and the fire was coming directly toward her home.</p>
+
+  <p>Her father came to her, explained their danger, told her to
+  warn her mother and then to do all she could to put out any
+  sparks that might fall around the woodpiles, house, or barn. This
+  said, he hastened to join the men in their desperate battle with
+  the fire. When Bessie entered the house, she saw her mother
+  weeping over her little baby, who had been born during the winter
+  months and who had known nothing but sickness and suffering. When
+  Mrs. Worthington heard the news, she continued to weep, and said,
+  "Well, dear, do all you can to put out the sparks; for I think
+  your little brother is dying, and I can not leave him."</p>
+
+  <p>By much hard work, the fire was held in check until evening.
+  Bessie made her rounds with a pail of water and a dipper until
+  her eyes became so painful on account of the smoke and heat that
+  she was forced to lie down on the ground until they quit hurting.
+  As soon as possible, however, she returned to her task, informing
+  her mother frequently of the progress of the fire.</p>
+
+  <p>At last word came that nothing more could be done; that the
+  house could not be saved. Seeing that further effort was useless
+  and that each moment increased the danger of their own lives, the
+  men left off fighting the fire, in order to save themselves and
+  to help, if possible, the Worthington family. They soon reached
+  the house. The next question was, where to go. The lake seemed to
+  be the nearest place of safety. Confusion was everywhere, but
+  through it all Mrs. Worthington sat quietly holding her dying
+  baby.</p>
+
+  <p>"O Mama," said Bessie, "aren't you going with the rest?"</p>
+
+  <p>"No," answered her mother positively; "I shall remain right
+  here with my dying child. I can not move him now and add to his
+  suffering. I know that God can take care of me here as well as
+  anywhere else. Why, Bessie, where is your faith? God can yet send
+  rain and put out the fire."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh! but if God doesn't send rain, you will burn up; for the
+  fire is almost here," cried Bessie. "Do come as far from the
+  house as you can, won't you?"</p>
+
+  <p>"No, Bessie, I told you, no. I shall sit just where I am,"
+  answered Mrs. Worthington; and Bessie knew that it would be
+  useless to press the matter further.</p>
+
+  <p>With throbbing heart Bessie ran to her room, which was already
+  getting hot from the fire: she fell upon her knees by the window
+  where she could see the flames leaping from tree to tree, and
+  began to call mightily upon God. "O God!" she prayed, "do send
+  rain or change the wind." After repeating this prayer several
+  times, she noticed some large drops of water upon the window
+  pane. She knew what it meant: once before God had sent rain to
+  help her in time of danger. Hastening down stairs, she said,
+  "Mama, it's raining." "Thank God!" said Mrs. Worthington, "I knew
+  he wouldn't let baby and me burn up."</p>
+
+  <p>By that time the rain was pouring down; the wind had ceased;
+  and the danger was over. The rain did not put out the fire, but
+  so checked it that, by hard work, it could be kept under control
+  until it died out.</p>
+
+  <p>Little Clement lived only a short time after the fire; but
+  just before he died, he looked into his weeping mother's face and
+  smiled three times. As he had never smiled before, Mrs.
+  Worthington always thought that God took that way to encourage
+  her heart.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XIX.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    LOST IN THE WOODS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As Leroy was too young to drive the cows home in the evening,
+  Bessie enjoyed many a long walk in search of them. One evening
+  she had some difficulty in finding them. It was one of those
+  evenings when everything is quiet and sound travels a long
+  distance. After listening carefully for the tinkling of the
+  cow-bells, Bessie was bewildered, for she could seemingly hear
+  them in every direction. At last, thinking she had located the
+  sound, she set out in that direction. When she had walked about
+  two miles, she stopped to listen again. The bells were still
+  tinkling, but they seemed to be just as far away. She knew,
+  though, that the cows sometimes went a long distance. She had
+  been following the road, but thinking the sound came from the
+  woods, she started off in that direction. She saw that the sun
+  was just going down behind the trees; that she was on an
+  unfamiliar path, and was getting farther and farther from home.
+  But she must get the cows, and on she went, stopping now and then
+  to locate the sound of the bells.</p>
+
+  <p>She suddenly found herself standing upon a point of land where
+  a deep, wide ravine extended on either side. The distance across
+  the ravine she could not see on account of the shadow and the
+  trees. What should she do? A few minutes previously she had
+  thought about its being late, but had hoped to find the cows and
+  to make them guide her home. This hope failing, she did not know
+  what to do. The bells were still tinkling ahead of her; but she
+  did not dare to try to cross the ravine in the darkness, now fast
+  gathering around her, and how could she return through those
+  dense woods! She thought of calling for help, but as quickly
+  realized how useless the effort would be, since there were no
+  houses near.</p>
+
+  <p>As she stood wondering what to do, these words from a psalm
+  she had committed to memory a short time before, came to her
+  mind: "If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the
+  night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from
+  thee; but the night shineth as the day; the darkness and the
+  light are both alike to thee." Two more precious promises came to
+  her mind: "I will guide thee with mine eye" and "He leadeth me
+  beside still waters." Oh, what encouragement those words were to
+  Bessie! Surely God would guide her home. With a thankful heart,
+  Bessie started to return. As she had passed through several
+  clearings in her search for the cows, she had no little
+  difficulty in finding her way; but the moon rose early and gave
+  her considerable light, and as she neared home, she began to
+  recognize some familiar objects.</p>
+
+  <p>But, in the meantime, how were her parents feeling? The cows
+  returned early and were milked. Mrs. Worthington wondered why
+  Bessie did not come with them, but thought she might have been
+  delayed and would come soon. She prepared supper; but when she
+  got it ready, Bessie was still absent.</p>
+
+  <p>"What can be keeping Bessie tonight?" Mrs. Worthington said
+  anxiously to her husband. "She should have come home an hour
+  ago."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, I suppose she has stopped somewhere to play," said Mr.
+  Worthington carelessly.</p>
+
+  <p>"No; I don't think so," replied his wife. "Bessie always tries
+  to be prompt, and I'm afraid something has happened. If she
+  doesn't come soon, you had better go to look for her."</p>
+
+  <p>"Well, wait until dark," said Mr. Worthington; "and, if she
+  isn't here then, I'll get some men and we'll search in different
+  directions. Did you notice which way she went!"</p>
+
+  <p>"No," answered his wife, "but I think she went east."</p>
+
+  <p>At dark Mr. Worthington started out with the searching party.
+  Mrs. Worthington tried not to worry; but when nine o'clock passed
+  and half-past nine came, she felt a great anxiety creeping into
+  her heart. Many times she offered an earnest prayer for Bessie's
+  protection. After putting Leroy to bed she stationed herself in
+  front of the house to watch.</p>
+
+  <p>About ten o'clock some one returned to say that he could find
+  no trace of Bessie.</p>
+
+  <p>With straining eyes, Mrs. Worthington looked in the direction
+  in which Bessie had gone, and at last thought that she could see
+  some one approaching. As the figure drew nearer, she could see
+  that it was her child, and with a glad cry ran to meet her. "O
+  Bessie," cried the mother, "what has happened to detain you? Your
+  father and a company of men are out searching the woods for you.
+  Dear child, where have you been?"</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie was very tired and hungry; but she related all that had
+  happened and said: "I'm sorry I couldn't go farther; for I
+  believe the cows were just a short distance beyond the point
+  where I turned back. But I did not dare to cross the swampy place
+  and go into the woods on the other side."</p>
+
+  <p>"Why, the cows have been home a long, long time, Bessie; and
+  that is what had made your delay seem so strange," said her
+  mother. "But were you not afraid, dear, when you found that you
+  were so far from home!"</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie explained how she had felt and how the Lord had
+  encouraged her and helped her to be brave.</p>
+
+  <p>"What time was that?" asked her mother; and when she learned,
+  she said, "Bessie, that was when I was so earnestly praying for
+  you. Surely our God is a mighty God and one who is ever
+  faithful."</p>
+
+  <p>When the searching party returned, they were all glad to know
+  that Bessie was safe at home.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XX"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XX.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    NOVEL-READING.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As Bessie approached her sixteenth year, Mrs. Worthington
+  became very anxious about her. The mother thought that she could
+  notice a change in her daughter's actions and disposition.
+  Instead of being confiding and happy, she seemed listless,
+  forgetful, and nervous. At first the mother could not understand
+  this change; but by close observation she found that her daughter
+  was indulging in light reading.</p>
+
+  <p>Some magazines and weekly papers containing continued
+  love-stories had found their way into the Worthington home. At
+  first they were not attractive to Bessie. She would merely glance
+  through the pages; but she gradually came to overlook the good,
+  substantial reading and to enjoy the part that stimulated the
+  romantic and imaginative part of her nature. The effect upon her
+  mental and moral powers was much the same as that produced upon
+  the digestive organs by rich and stimulating foods. Her mind was
+  thus weakened and robbed of its relish for wholesome reading. She
+  was ever looking forward for something to excite or satisfy her
+  abnormal desire for the romantic or the dreadful.</p>
+
+  <p>As soon as Mrs. Worthington realized her daughter's danger,
+  she sought an opportunity to instruct her on the dangers of
+  novel-reading. "Some effects of novel-reading," said she, "are
+  worse even than those produced by dancing. Many novels are
+  hurtful because of the many false ideas interwoven in the
+  stories. Some novels attract the pure-minded by their morality;
+  but it is unsafe to read them, for the reason I have already
+  given you, and because, as with any bad habit, the exciting
+  influences must be constantly increased. In this way some persons
+  are deceived and drawn into many of Satan's snares.</p>
+
+  <p>"In most novels there is much that is good and true; but the
+  immoral, the worldly, and the untrue are so interwoven with it
+  that the reader unconsciously finds himself taking pleasure in
+  thoughts which, before he began reading novels, would have been
+  disgusting. In this way the reader's sense of right is lowered
+  and an appetite created&mdash;an appetite that can not be
+  satisfied; the more it is fed, the more depraved and exacting it
+  becomes. Gradually the desire for the romantic increases until
+  the novel-reader longs to have a romance of her own. Her sense of
+  duty is so blunted and her better judgment so blinded that she
+  often agrees to a secret marriage with some one who is wholly
+  unfit to be her life companion. It is in this way that many a
+  girl has been deceived and led into sin. Many times, too, habits
+  have been formed, from which nothing but the grace of God could
+  deliver. In looking back over a wasted life, many a person can
+  see that his or her downfall had its origin in the first
+  novel.</p>
+
+  <p>"My dear child, there are many good books that you will find
+  both helpful and interesting, but the Bible should be the pattern
+  of your life. Let it be the principal food for your mind and
+  soul. Your time all belongs to God, and you should waste none of
+  it in reading unwholesome literature."</p>
+
+  <p>As Mrs. Worthington finished speaking, she was glad to see a
+  changed look in Bessie's face. She knew that God was talking to
+  her daughter; and as she arose to go, she said: "Bessie, do not
+  forget from whom you may expect strength. I am praying that God
+  will entirely take away the unnatural appetite which you have
+  been fostering."</p>
+
+  <p>It was not long until Bessie rejoiced in full deliverance from
+  her taste for novel-reading, and her interest in her mother's
+  talks returned. As they read the Bible together and praised God
+  for the precious truths it contained, cherishing them within
+  their hearts as priceless treasures, Bessie's understanding
+  seemed to open, and she was able to comprehend many of the deep
+  truths of God's Word. The reading of God's Word gave her such
+  unbounding joy, such complete spiritual happiness, that nothing
+  could compare with it. Its truths, so simple and yet so grand,
+  were at once a guide and a reproof to keep her feet from straying
+  from the narrow way.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    GLAD TIDINGS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>In a small house about two miles from Bessie's home lived a
+  very old lady. She loved the Lord and enjoyed telling of his
+  goodness and of his dealings with her. Bessie, who was now about
+  sixteen years of age, enjoyed these talks very much.</p>
+
+  <p>One day while Bessie and her mother were visiting this aged
+  saint, she brought forth a much-worn paper and handed it to Mrs.
+  Worthington, saying, "My daughter sent me this paper. You may
+  take it home, if you like," she continued; "but I must ask you to
+  return it, as my daughter wants it again." As Mrs. Worthington
+  took the paper, Bessie saw at the top of the page, in large
+  letters, "The Gospel Trumpet." After reading a few minutes Mrs.
+  Worthington exclaimed: "This paper is certainly the work of a
+  people who understand the plan of salvation. Things are fully
+  explained here that have been plain to me for years&mdash;things
+  that I dared not mention publicly lest I be thought
+  fanatical."</p>
+
+  <p>On their return home Mrs. Worthington said: "It must have been
+  in answer to prayer that Sister Moore let me see that paper. I
+  have prayed for many years that God would help me to find a
+  people who were not afraid to preach his whole Word. I believe we
+  have found them. Who knows but this is God's way of starting a
+  series of meetings here. Oh, the wonderful God we serve! I shall
+  subscribe for the paper at once and also send my poem on sectism
+  to see if they will publish it." The subscription was sent, and
+  the poem soon appeared in the paper.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was truly thankful to find that God had
+  others in the world who were willing to teach the whole Bible
+  without construing any part to suit their own ideas.</p>
+
+  <p>It was not long until a testimony appeared from a minister
+  living a few miles away; and, agreeably with Mrs. Worthington's
+  request, a series of meetings was started in the
+  neighborhood.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    THE MEETINGS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>The news of the good meetings spread rapidly, and the
+  attendance constantly increased. The gospel as preached was a new
+  message to the people, and yet it was the very same that Jesus
+  and his disciples taught. Every point of doctrine presented had a
+  "thus saith the Lord" to confirm it.</p>
+
+  <p>Many saw that the Bible had been misunderstood and had been
+  misconstrued by mankind to prove minor points, while the deep and
+  vital truths had been so covered over with prejudice and unbelief
+  that the majority of the people were blind to the true meaning of
+  the Word; and that, in their confusion, each had gone to the
+  denomination that seemed most nearly to correspond to his clouded
+  views. It was also clearly shown that there is no way to heaven
+  except the straight and narrow way that Jesus taught, and that
+  God's Word is the only true measure of a Christian
+  experience.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington felt now that her cup of joy was full since
+  she could hear the way of salvation and the true church explained
+  from the pulpit just as God had revealed them to her. She was
+  also glad that Bessie, who was now old enough to understand deep
+  spiritual truths for herself, was in perfect harmony and
+  fellowship with her.</p>
+
+  <p>About forty souls were saved in the meetings; some gained the
+  experience of sanctification; and the Spirit of the Lord worked
+  mightily upon the hearts of many others.</p>
+
+  <p>Oh, the deep and wonderful love of God! Oh, the richness and
+  fulness of his grace! How glorious Bessie now found her walk with
+  God! How precious to commune with him and feel that she was
+  growing deeper into his love! Truly it was a taste of heaven!</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    BESSIE SEES HER DUTY.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Among those converted in the meetings was a girl a little
+  younger than Bessie. Her name was Cora. Being an orphan and
+  living in the home of an infidel uncle, where she had no one to
+  understand or sympathize with her views, she often sought Bessie
+  for counsel and advice. The uncle did not oppose his niece, but
+  others in his family did.</p>
+
+  <p>As time went on, the two girls became anxious to be doing
+  something for the Lord. While they were pondering over the
+  matter, a company of ministers came to the place to hold another
+  series of meetings. From them the girls learned that <i>The
+  Gospel Trumpet</i> was published by consecrated labor, that the
+  workers received no stated salary, but that they trusted the Lord
+  for their food and clothing.</p>
+
+  <p>It seemed a strange story to the girls, but Cora felt that she
+  should like to go and help in the work. Though her uncle was not
+  pleased with her plan, yet finally, after he had investigated and
+  had found the place respectable, he gave his consent. It was
+  several months, however, before she expected to leave. Toward the
+  close of this time Bessie began to feel some anxiety for her
+  friend, and one day said to her, "Cora, do you really want to go
+  to <i>The Gospel Trumpet</i> office to work? Now, if you don't
+  want to go, God will not be pleased with your service." "Bessie,
+  I have lost all desire to go," Cora answered. "It seems to me
+  that God is calling you instead of me. You could be a much
+  greater help than I, because you have known and understood this
+  truth all your life."</p>
+
+  <p>If Bessie had received a severe blow, it could not have hurt
+  her more. Her precious mother! How could she leave her! Many of
+  her cherished hopes for the future arose before me. Her plan, to
+  do all she could for her mother in her declining years, came up
+  before her; and as she thought of it, she became very sad. When
+  the two girls parted at the door, Bessie's heart was very heavy;
+  and when she was at last alone, she wept bitterly. She remembered
+  that she had consecrated to do anything the Lord might require of
+  her, but she did not see how she could do this. For many days
+  Bessie bore this heavy burden; and, not being strong, she began
+  to fail in health. From appearances, she had a malignant form of
+  quick consumption. The course of the disease was rapid, and in a
+  few weeks she was not only confined to her bed, but seemingly
+  very near death. Mr. Worthington desired to consult a physician,
+  but reluctantly heeded to Bessie's earnest entreaties to let her
+  trust the Lord. She said to her father, "I know that God would
+  heal me, if for the best; and, if not, I would rather die." And
+  she added mentally, "I would rather die than to leave home."</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie at last became so low that she could not be left alone
+  night or day. As her mother sat beside her one day, holding her
+  hand, she said: "I believe, dear, that God wants to heal you and
+  use you for himself. I feel like asking our elder, Sister Smith,
+  to come and anoint you with oil according to Jas. 5:14, 15. I am
+  sure God will heal you."</p>
+
+  <p>Sister Smith was brought as soon as possible; but, to Mrs.
+  Worthington's surprise, she did not offer to anoint Bessie until
+  the next day. She said: "I can not understand this case. There is
+  something here that seems very strange. Bessie appears to be
+  perfectly resigned to die, but she only answers yes or no to my
+  questions. I shall talk to her again." Returning to the bedside,
+  she said, "My dear, if God heals you, are you willing to leave
+  your father, mother, and home to preach the gospel"&mdash;but she
+  got no farther. Bessie, with all the emphasis she could command
+  in her weak state, interrupted, "No; I will never preach."</p>
+
+  <p>"Ah! there is the point in your consecration that you have not
+  reached," replied Sister Smith. "You must be willing to do
+  anything that will bring the most honor to God's name, and to
+  work where he can get the most glory out of your service. It may
+  be the Lord will never require you to preach; but he wants the
+  willingness on your part, just as much as if he wanted to make a
+  minister of you."</p>
+
+  <p>It was some time before Bessie could answer; but when she did,
+  it was to say that she would do anything, only that she must know
+  that it was God who required it.</p>
+
+  <p>"God will make you to know that," said Sister Smith; "and now
+  I feel that everything is out of the way, and we can ask God to
+  heal you."</p>
+
+  <p>As she applied the oil and called earnestly upon God, there
+  seemed to be a heavenly atmosphere filling the room. Bessie felt
+  a soothing sensation passing through her body; and when the
+  prayer was ended, she felt perfectly well, though exceedingly
+  weak. Her strength soon returned, however, and it was not long
+  until the Lord told her plainly that he wanted her at <i>The
+  Gospel Trumpet</i> office. She remembered her consecration and
+  felt willing in her heart to obey; but she shrank from telling
+  her parents. For two weeks she endured severe mental suffering.
+  She tried to gain sufficient courage to speak to her mother about
+  the call, but her tongue refused to form the words. One day while
+  she and her mother were in the cosy sitting-room, Mrs.
+  Worthington said, "Bessie, I believe that God wants you at <i>The
+  Gospel Trumpet</i> office and that he has used Cora's plan and
+  your sickness to show you your duty." Looking up through eyes
+  filled with tears, Bessie related all that God had revealed to
+  her. A great calm then came into her soul.</p>
+
+  <p>But the test was not entirely over. Mr. Worthington must be
+  told, and&mdash;would he be willing? Embracing the first
+  opportunity, Bessie told him her plans and begged his approval
+  upon them; but his reply nearly crushed her.</p>
+
+  <p>"Bessie," said her father, "if you must leave us, you may go;
+  but I have one thing to say and I mean it. If you go, you can
+  never return; for your going is heartless indeed. I can not see
+  why you should choose to go from your comfortable home and those
+  who love you so dearly, and leave your mother, who so much needs
+  your help."</p>
+
+  <p>"Father, Father!" exclaimed Bessie, "Oh, don't talk that way!
+  You know how much I love you all. You know I never wanted to
+  leave home before; and if you won't let me return, what shall I
+  do?"</p>
+
+  <p>As she stood there before her father almost broken-hearted, a
+  sweet voice whispered, "I will be with thee; be not afraid." The
+  words sounded like music in her soul and reminded her of her
+  recent decision to obey the Lord at any cost; and she said
+  quietly:</p>
+
+  <p>"Well, Father, if you refuse to let me return home, it will
+  have to be that way; but I must obey the Lord, and he has called
+  me into his service"</p>
+
+  <p>"Very well," he answered, "but remember my words," and he left
+  her.</p>
+
+  <p>Seeking her mother, Bessie told her of the interview and of
+  her father's refusal to allow her to return home. For a moment
+  they stood looking at one another; and then, with great tears
+  filling her eyes, her mother said:</p>
+
+  <p>"Remember the words of Jesus, 'There is no man that hath left
+  house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the
+  kingdom of God's sake, who shall not receive manifold more in
+  this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.'
+  Dear, child, I know your dutiful nature, and how you long to obey
+  your parents; but the Bible says to obey them in the Lord. When
+  you have to choose whom you will serve, God or your parents, you
+  must choose the Lord."</p>
+
+  <p>"I will obey God," said Bessie quietly; and she began at once
+  to prepare to leave home.</p>
+
+  <p>When all was ready and the morning of departure had come, Mr.
+  Worthington went out to prepare to take his daughter to the
+  train. He had been very silent all the morning, but Bessie's
+  heart was so full that she had taken little notice of his
+  behavior. Oh, how she longed for his consent for her to return!
+  Her mother gave her every encouraging word possible. At last they
+  looked out and saw that the horse was ready. As Bessie picked up
+  her last bundle, the door opened, and her father, stepping in
+  quickly, caught her in his arms. "O my child," he sobbed, "will
+  you forgive me and come back as soon as the Lord will let you? I
+  didn't mean what I said; but it is so hard to give you up. If you
+  need anything, write to me at once and let me know about it,
+  won't you?" and he tenderly kissed her. Bessie's heart was filled
+  with joy, and she said that he could expect her home just as soon
+  as the Lord would let her come.</p>
+
+  <p>"Read 1 Cor. 10:13 and Jas. 1:12 just as soon as you have
+  time, dear," whispered Mrs. Worthington in her daughter's ear as
+  she kissed her again before she jumped into the buggy beside her
+  father. Then they drove away from the home and the mother that
+  were so dear to Bessie's heart.</p>
+
+  <p>Very few words were spoken on the way to town, and after a
+  long ride Bessie found herself on the train. It all seemed like a
+  terrible dream; but there was a sweet peace and quietness in her
+  soul, and her father's loving words rang again and again in her
+  ears.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    REVERIE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>In the days that followed Bessie's arrival at the
+  <i>Trumpet</i> office, she found many ways in which she could
+  help spread the gospel. She found, too, that she could preach in
+  a way that was not at all distasteful to her; for she could set
+  up many lines of type to be used in printing the gospel message
+  in the <i>Trumpet</i>, which was carrying light and truth into
+  many homes and preaching to hungry souls. But oh, how often she
+  thought of the dear ones at home and of how they were missing
+  her!</p>
+
+  <p>One evening, when she sought her room and sat down beside the
+  window, as she had so often done at home, she began to review her
+  life. As the soft shadows gathered slowly about her, she seemed
+  to be at home again close beside her mother's knee, listening to
+  her tender, loving words of sympathy and advice. Bessie could now
+  see what they had been worth to her. They not only had prepared
+  her for a common sphere in life, but had given her a thorough
+  understanding of God's great plan of salvation. As she recalled
+  her mother's prayers and talks, she realized that, through them,
+  she had many times escaped what other girls had ignorantly
+  blundered into, and had been spared a great many of the bitter
+  sorrows that come into the lives of girls not taught at their
+  mother's knee. In her thankfulness, she offered a fervent prayer
+  to her heavenly Father that many more earnest, noble, and
+  prayerful mothers might be found to guide their children through
+  the critical period of childhood.</p>
+
+  <p>After three months Bessie returned home for a short visit with
+  her parents. Upon her arrival she not only found a loving and
+  tender welcome, but also learned that both her parents had
+  accepted her call as from God. After a happy visit of two weeks
+  she returned to her work. With the blessing of God upon her
+  labors, we shall here bid her good-by.</p>
+
+  <p>In conclusion, we wish to say that what she became was
+  principally in answer to her faithful mother's prayers. Had she
+  been left&mdash;as many girls are&mdash;without a mother's tender
+  love and confidence, mingled with many earnest prayers, she would
+  have fallen into temptations that she never knew. She had fully
+  proved the worth of a praying mother.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    A PLEA TO MOTHERS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Home as God intended it is built upon the corner-stone of
+  virtue and prayer. It makes no difference how beautiful the house
+  nor how grand its contents, if the mother is a woman who does not
+  care for God or virtue, the corner-stone of that home is lacking.
+  Such a home can not stand when trial and temptation enter.</p>
+
+  <p>A stream never rises above its source, nor a home above the
+  ideals of its founders. No matter how humble the home, do not
+  belittle its possibilities. Anything so sacred as home can
+  command heaven's choicest and best blessings. The humblest cabin
+  may contain that element which makes home the shrine of happiness
+  and the temple of peace, and will cause it to send forth saints
+  and heroes.</p>
+
+  <p>Oh that parents, especially mothers, could realize their
+  influence in the home, their power to direct the young minds
+  around them into the proper channel! Let us so educate and train
+  the children that they will be able to get the greatest good from
+  their natural endowment and that they may use it in such a manner
+  as will bring the most glory to God. So train them and so live
+  before them in the home that in after-years they will say with
+  pleasure: "This precept was always taught me by my parents.
+  Father and Mother's holy example has been a priceless birthright
+  to me."</p>
+
+  <p>This is true parenthood. It should be the ideal in every home.
+  By this I mean parents who realize their responsibility and have
+  their children's best interest at heart; parents who will
+  sacrifice any pleasure of their own for the benefit and happiness
+  of their little ones; parents who will not only bid their
+  children a hearty welcome into the world, but will care for their
+  future from that moment, and who have the love and respect of
+  their entire household.</p>
+
+  <p>You may say that parents like these are few and hard to find.
+  True, but it is equally so that, with proper knowledge and
+  understanding, many would approach this standard. Perhaps some
+  have allowed years to slip carelessly by and their darlings to
+  pass seemingly beyond their control. To such I would say, It is
+  never too late to pray.</p>
+
+  <p>Observe the wayward boy whose chief inheritance is a wild,
+  wilful nature. He is nearing his fourteenth birthday. Having been
+  allowed to have his own way while small, he has cultivated an
+  ungovernable desire to do as he pleases. Let the mother of that
+  boy cease her old habit of saying, "I don't know what will become
+  of that boy! I don't understand how he can treat me so rudely.
+  I've done all I can, and he just grows worse," and take a more
+  rational method. Have you gone to that boy and told him the
+  sweet, simple story of Jesus and why he came from his beautiful
+  home; that a part of his mission was to teach you how to make
+  your home after the pattern of his heavenly home; that his heart
+  is touched with compassion when he beholds any one in trouble;
+  that he is grieved because you have made a mistake; but that you
+  are sorry and are decided to do your duty? Have you told the boy
+  all that? Have you knelt beside his bed at night with your
+  tear-dimmed eyes pressed upon his hand, and told him the great
+  dangers that are before him, even surrounding him, and informed
+  him how to avoid them? Have you told him that he is at the most
+  critical time in his life, that a mistake now will mean a life of
+  suffering for both him and you, and that he can with you begin
+  over and remove some of his past mistakes? Have you talked thus
+  to your boy? If not, why not? It is your privilege as well as
+  your duty.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXVI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    PARENTAL DUTY.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>The first duty of father and mother to their child is to see
+  that they are a unit on family government. Second, they must
+  study themselves and their failures, trying to make the weak
+  places strong. Third, study the disposition of the child, gain an
+  understanding of its inner life, and find out what pleases and
+  displeases it; and, while cultivating the good, hold in check the
+  bad. A mother should understand her children better than any one
+  else. If she is a thoughtful mother, she knows not only the
+  surroundings of her children, but many of the impressions that
+  she has stamped upon their undeveloped minds.</p>
+
+  <p>Children are not putty that can be moulded into any form to
+  suit our fancy, but there is a method by which we can fashion
+  their young lives. Much patience, devotion to the child, and
+  fervent prayer will be needful to accomplish anything worth
+  while.</p>
+
+  <p>Every parent should see that their attitude toward their
+  children is what it should be. Consider their feelings and show
+  them respect, remembering that they have rights upon which you
+  must not intrude; but never loosen the reigns of home government.
+  Make any rules that you think practicable and necessary; explain
+  each rule carefully to your child, giving your reason for making
+  it, and then demand obedience. Never, unless for some special
+  reason, ignore any good rule. Should your child happen to break
+  one of these rules, do not punish without first finding out the
+  cause. He may not have understood your meaning, or he may have
+  forgotten. Take him quietly aside; and, after finding out why he
+  has disobeyed, gently tell him again your reasons for making the
+  rules and the necessity of his obedience. You might have to do
+  this several times, but do not excuse him too long. When it is
+  necessary to punish, ask for wisdom from above, and then punish
+  in a way that he will understand you and remember the punishment.
+  When you make a statement, stand by it, if possible, unless you
+  see error in it. If such be the case, confess your fault. If your
+  child does not show you due respect and obedience, there is a
+  cause for it, and it is your duty to find out what that cause
+  is.</p>
+
+  <p>All children have to contend with bad qualities that have been
+  inherited. Do not flatter yourself that because the child is
+  yours it will escape temptation; for all must be tempted, if they
+  would be strong. Teach your children, according to their ability
+  to comprehend, all that they should know to be able to shun evil.
+  Do not think that because your child has inherited some moral
+  weakness, you are helpless to teach him to overcome it. You can
+  explain to him his danger and tell him what yielding to the
+  temptations that come to him because of this weakness will lead
+  to. Point out the effect of this sin upon the one from whom it
+  was inherited. Tell the child that the only chance to overcome
+  this inherited tendency will be by constantly avoiding those
+  things that will lead to temptation. You may find the task
+  difficult and you may sometimes feel disheartened, but you must
+  put that wayward child of yours right, if possible, or God will
+  hold you accountable. Perhaps the inherited sin may lie at your
+  own door. If it does, you will understand better how to help him
+  from under its power.</p>
+
+  <p>In the public school, on the street, and in his various
+  associations, your child will be exposed to the evil of hearing
+  impure language from vile lips; and if he be not warned, who can
+  blame him for listening? Your home teaching must overbalance all
+  that he hears outside.</p>
+
+  <p>Should some question concerning the mysteries of his own body
+  or of his own origin be aroused in his mind by impure stories or
+  by any other cause, you must at once arise to meet the difficulty
+  before harm is done that will be very difficult to overcome. But
+  some mother will say: "I do not know what answer to make my child
+  when he asks questions of such a delicate nature. Would it not be
+  best to leave his mind free from these ideas until he is older?"
+  Doubtless it would, if the child would be contented to wait; but
+  when he has learned enough to ask the question, he is able to
+  tell whether you speak the truth when you say you do not know,
+  and he will not be satisfied by the flimsy pretest, "Oh, run away
+  and don't bother me; I'm too busy."</p>
+
+  <p>Above all else, keep the confidence of your child, so that he
+  will come to you with every trouble of life. Confidence of
+  children in their parents is a gift from God. All children have
+  it at first. See the tottering baby cling to its mother for
+  support; watch it run to her when it is frightened. Can it not
+  have the same confidence when it is older? I answer from
+  experience that it can and should. Truth inspires trust in your
+  child. If you do not think it best to answer all his questions
+  fully at the time when he asks them, tell him at least enough to
+  satisfy his curiosity, and promise him that, if this remains a
+  secret between you and him, he may come to you whenever he wants
+  more information. Do not be afraid of having secrets with your
+  child. The matter may be trifling, but the fact that he is
+  helping you to keep secrets will teach him to value his word and
+  will increase his confidence in you. On the other hand, if you
+  tell him an untruth, do not think that he will come to you again.
+  No, he will doubtless go to some friend who he thinks will tell
+  him, and thus get his young mind tainted with impure thoughts.
+  And little better in results than telling an untruth is putting
+  the child off till some future time. These questions must be met
+  when they arrive.</p>
+
+  <p>You may say, "I don't know how much to tell at any one time."
+  Wisdom is necessary here. No more should be told than will
+  satisfy the present curiosity of the child. A few questions on
+  your part will readily discover what information he has gained
+  and how much he wishes to know.</p>
+
+  <p>A boy of scarce six summers once came to his mother with a
+  question of life. The mother was shocked; but, offering an
+  earnest prayer for wisdom, she questioned the child and found
+  that he had heard remarks made by older boys. As his mind was
+  developed enough to comprehend part of their conversation, his
+  curiosity was aroused. Having perfect confidence in his mother,
+  he had sought her for an explanation of the points that perplexed
+  him. As simply as possible, that mother gave the information,
+  ending with the words, "Now, darling, this is to be a perfect
+  secret between us; and when you are old enough, I will tell you
+  more." Years passed by until the boy was in his eleventh year;
+  then he once more went to his mother for information. "Mama," he
+  began, "do you remember the time you told me a secret?" She
+  answered that she did, and he continued: "Well, I have kept that
+  secret. I have never mentioned it to any one. And do you remember
+  that you said some time you would tell me more?" When she
+  answered, "Yes," he said quickly, "Don't you think I'm old enough
+  now?" In answer, the mother put her arms about him and said, "My
+  son, you shall hear all you wish to hear. What is it, dear?" Then
+  as each question came, she gave him a satisfactory answer, and
+  ended by saying, "Whenever you want to know more, come to me, and
+  I will tell you." That boy continued to go to his mother; and
+  when he entered the most trying period of his life, her advice
+  kept him from the dangers into which so many fall. In hours of
+  trial she was able to point him to the Savior. Never neglect the
+  duty of warning your child of danger.</p>
+
+  <p>Teaching of this kind will endear you to your children long
+  after you are resting in the grave. They will recount, "My mother
+  told me this. My father taught me that. They must have understood
+  God's plan of salvation, or they would never have known how to
+  tell me these things." But the task will require your highest
+  talents. Sympathy and love, constant watchfulness, and earnest
+  prayer will be the most needful. Since the child does not know
+  himself, you must learn to know him. You must search for the
+  secret springs that govern his actions and for the master key
+  that will unlock his heart.</p>
+
+  <p>One dear young woman, relating her experience to me, said: "My
+  mother died when I was only six years old; but I know she must
+  have been a Christian, because some friends who knew her told me
+  of her devoted life and of earnest pleadings for her children
+  when she saw that she must leave them. All that I can remember
+  about her was seeing her bowing in prayer or talking to us
+  children. There are desires in my nature that I know must have
+  been planted within me in answer to her prayer. After her death I
+  was cast out upon the world. I went to live with a very ungodly
+  family, but that sense of right and wrong within me made me shun
+  and despise their evil ways. I loved to read my Bible. From it I
+  learned that, if I would gain heaven, I must forsake sin and live
+  a pure life. To live such a life was a pleasure until I found
+  that the denomination whose meetings I attended would not allow
+  me to say much about a holy life, because their creed did not
+  teach it. Then I promised the Lord that I would be a Christian if
+  I had to be one all by myself. This was not necessary, for I
+  found many true Christians who believed all that the Bible
+  teaches."</p>
+
+  <p>That mother's prayers had fashioned and governed the life of
+  her daughter long before the child was able to understand her
+  mother's meaning. Parents can not begin too early to win the
+  child's love and confidence, and they should spare no pains to
+  maintain these to mature years. Those who do will find that their
+  children will never, even to old age, fail to come to them for
+  sympathy and advice. Children so reared will always love and
+  honor their father and mother as the Bible says they should, and
+  will look upon their parents' lives as examples for them to
+  imitate. See to it that you show yourself a good pattern, in
+  thought, word, and deed, for them to follow.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXVII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    USEFUL HINTS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>There is no definite rule whereby parents may control their
+  home, except to seek advice from God, for no two families have
+  the same environment. Any method that will bring about the
+  desired result may be applied; but the method must be systematic
+  and thorough. A positive attitude is good, and should be
+  encouraged, but harshness ought never to be used. The latter will
+  tend to discouragement and resentment in the child, while the
+  former will teach the difference between right and wrong.</p>
+
+  <p>Be charitable to your children in regard to their faults and
+  failings, so that they may learn by your example to be charitable
+  to each other and to their fellows. Teach them the blessings that
+  charity will bring to them; show them that it is the greatest of
+  God's gifts and that without it they will meet many buffetings
+  from their contact with the world. Remember that Paul speaks of
+  it as "the more excellent way" and admonishes us to desire it
+  above all things else.</p>
+
+  <p>Children must have entertainment. Rich and costly furniture,
+  elaborate parties, or even guests are not necessary. Children may
+  be entertained in a very simple manner. What child does not enjoy
+  the old-fashioned game of hide-and-seek, tag, or some such
+  innocent amusement with Papa and Mama? It may take a little of
+  your time, but what of that? Do all you can to make your home the
+  happiest place on earth for your children.</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes," says one, "that will do while the children are little;
+  but just wait until they grow up, and then they will seek other
+  company." I did not say that they must always stay with you. Of
+  course they will desire to go from home sometimes. What I mean is
+  that we can make home so attractive that they will note the
+  difference between it and the outside world. The interest we take
+  in them will constrain them to remain at home and to return when
+  away from it. Home! Oh that beautiful word! Poets have written
+  about it, choirs have sung about it, but who can fathom the
+  meaning of that little word, home! None but the child who has
+  been taught to revere, cherish, and enjoy it, and then looking
+  back remembers the happy years spent in the home circle.</p>
+
+  <p>I think that I hear a father say, "When I return from my work,
+  I am so tired I can not stand the children's noise." Is that so?
+  Do you not love your children, and are you not working for their
+  welfare! If so, do you not think that a little less labor with
+  your hands and a little time spent with them would be more
+  profitable? Perhaps a little romp or chat with them would rest
+  you. Try it anyway. You who are desk workers can afford it: it
+  will help you to cast off the responsibilities of the day and the
+  better prepare you for the morrow. A romp with the children is
+  not lost; but, on the other hand, is a benefit for both parent
+  and child. Thoughtful parents can think of many things that will
+  increase the interest in home and will draw them closer to their
+  children.</p>
+
+  <p>Sometimes it is good for the children to visit their friends,
+  but parents should always be acquainted with these friends. Never
+  let your child go where games are played that you would not allow
+  played in your own home. Here is where conscience and confidence
+  will help you. Be cautious about allowing your child to go
+  somewhere to stay all night. In this way many a child has learned
+  evil practises and in some cases been ruined. Then, too, it draws
+  his mind away from the home circle.</p>
+
+  <p>"But," you say, "all this I have done, and yet my children are
+  now forgetful of it all. They are indulging in many things that
+  they were taught to be harmful to the soul." My dear friend, can
+  you not remember when this state of things began? Can you not
+  point to a time when there was a drifting from your home circle?
+  when home life began to seem too narrow for your child? when he
+  began to crave the association of others more than that of his
+  own brothers and sisters? Did you at that time lift up your home
+  banner and shield? Did you tell him of the rapids in the
+  distance? "No," you falteringly answer; "I thought there could be
+  no harm in allowing him to mingle with his chums at school and to
+  visit them in their homes. I was afraid to be too particular,
+  lest he should think me too strict with him." Ah! friend, that
+  was your golden opportunity, and you failed to see it. After
+  instructing the child, you should have bowed with him in prayer,
+  giving him over to God's keeping. Then, if he chose to
+  go&mdash;remembering that your prayers were following
+  him&mdash;nine chances out of ten he would have returned with
+  words similar to those spoken by a youth who had been permitted
+  to attend a party. In answer to his father's question he said,
+  "Yes; I had a good time, but I have better times at home."
+  "Better times at home!" Think of it, parents! Is it not worth
+  some self-denial, some sacrifices, on pour part, to have your
+  home spoken of in this manner?</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes," says a mother, "that is all right when both parents are
+  in harmony and have salvation; but suppose that the parents are
+  poor and that one is unsaved?" I have seen just such homes as
+  this governed in the manner whereof I speak. God gave more grace
+  and strength to the saved companion; and, although there were
+  many difficulties to encounter, yet the saved one was able to
+  influence the home for God. "All things are possible to him that
+  believeth," said Christ in olden times, and his statement is
+  still true.</p>
+
+  <p>Again, I hear a parent whose loved companion has recently died
+  say, "What can I do now to train my children aright?" There comes
+  before my mind a beautiful scene of a faithful mother with her
+  son and daughter whom she had brought up to God's glory. She was
+  left alone with these two precious ones to guide and rear to
+  manhood and womanhood. She bade adieu to the words "I can't" and
+  with determination went about her task. As God never lets such
+  zeal go without assistance, this mother found help in time of
+  need. Another scene which I love to recall is that of a devoted
+  father and by his side his two motherless daughters just entering
+  womanhood. He gives them every spare moment that he has, and both
+  are real examples of trust and purity.</p>
+
+  <p>In your zeal to find entertainment for your children, do not
+  forget that they must have employment. See that every member of
+  your household has certain work to do. This work should be suited
+  to the years and the strength of the individual and, if possible,
+  to his likes and dislikes. Work of the proper kind will
+  strengthen the muscles, improve the health, keep out many evils,
+  and create in the young a desire to help bear the burdens of
+  life. Periods of rest may be made profitable by having on hand as
+  much wholesome literature as you are able to secure. By this
+  means much useful knowledge may be stored. The reading need not
+  be confined wholly to religious works; reliable treatises on
+  science, art, mechanics, cooking, chemistry, domestic economy,
+  health, etc., are all profitable if not indulged in to the
+  exclusion of religious literature. If you trust God, he will help
+  you to know what to do.</p>
+
+  <p>A lady once said, "Our children are what we make them, and we
+  get out of them just what we put in." These words contain much
+  truth. God holds all parents, according to their light and
+  understanding, responsible for the training of their
+  children.</p>
+
+  <p>If you have a preference among your children, never reveal it.
+  On the contrary, endeavor to place the less favored ahead in your
+  care and attention. You can justly do this, for the favorite will
+  get all the attention he deserves anyway. I well remember a case
+  where the mother's favorite son brought sorrow and shame to the
+  entire household by stealing from his own father, simply because
+  she had humored and petted him in childhood. Parents can not be
+  too careful in this respect.</p>
+
+  <p>Many a mother does not realize how highly her children value
+  her opinion. A boy had met with an accident that somewhat
+  disfigured him for a time. While he was preparing to leave for
+  school, his mother said, "You will no doubt be made sport of
+  today; are you able to bear it?" His answer was, "Oh, I don't
+  care what any one says about me but you; but if you were to make
+  fun of me, I couldn't stand it."</p>
+
+  <center>
+    SWEET GEM OF THE HOME.
+  </center>
+
+  <div class="poem">
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Thou formal home, so graced, so blest,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>With earthly treasures rare;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Within thy portals we expect</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>All graces rich and fair.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>We gaze, we search, but all in vain;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>The gem we love so well,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>"Sweet innocence," doth not remain,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Nor in thy chambers dwell.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Thy children, as the world they greet,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Are bearing tales of thee;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>"I was not warned," they oft repeat,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Nor taught at Mother's knee.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Sweet Innocence, thou heav'nly grace,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Rich gem from God above!</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Thy touch upon the human face</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Reveals but peace and love.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Thy treasures richer far than gold,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thy gifts of greatest worth,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Might grace our homes, except for sin,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Whose curse now sweeps the earth.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>We look for thee within the maid,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>With beauty, grace, and charm,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>But find thy flight she hath not stayed,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Nor doth she feel alarm.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Then in the lad, whose noble brow</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thy presence might suggest;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>With closer view we must allow</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>By thee he is not blest.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>E'en when we look within the child</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>And laud his graces sweet,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>We find his mind so soon defiled</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>For thee 'tis no retreat.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>"And why?" we ask, "oh! why is this?</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Such need and dearth abound.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Oh! why in homes of promised bliss</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>May not this gem be found?"</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>The mystery, so deep, so great,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Is simply lack of prayer;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Is bidding timely warning wait</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>For daily toil and care.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Allowing things that crumble, waste,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Our whole attention claim,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>We cause sweet Innocence in haste</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>To leave our homes to shame.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>But thee, sweet grace, we find in some&mdash;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thank God thou art not lost!&mdash;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>We see thee in the Christian home</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>As royal guest and host.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>We note the mother as she pleads</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>For counsel from God's throne,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Then goes with wisdom that she needs</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>And strength to make it known.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>We watch the child in this true home,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>And in its face so fair</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>We recognise what doth become</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>A faithful mother's prayer.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Sweet Innocence! may we extol,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Within the home, thy art;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Thy power to beautify the soul,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To teach the pure in heart.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Thou gift divine! thou fairest gem!</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thy presence may we crave,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>That thou mayst grace our diadem</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>In life beyond the grave.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Reveal, O grace, unto the world</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thy beauties rich and rare,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>That all may understand and know</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>What mothers find in prayer</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+  </div>
+
+<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 12042 ***</div>
+</body>
+</html>
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+Project Gutenberg's The value of a praying mother, by Isabel C. Byrum
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+Title: The value of a praying mother
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+Author: Isabel C. Byrum
+
+Release Date: April 15, 2004 [EBook #12042]
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+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER ***
+
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+
+  <h1>THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER</h1>
+
+  <h2>BY ISABEL C. BYRUM</h2>
+
+  <p style="text-align: center;">GOSPEL TRUMPET COMPANY</p>
+
+  <p style="text-align: center;">First Printing 1911</p><br>
+
+  <h2>PREFACE.</h2>
+
+  <p>This book has a purpose: it is sent forth as precious seed,
+  with the prayer that it will fall into "good soil" in many hearts
+  and bring forth an hundredfold.</p>
+
+  <p>All parents with natural affection desire the best things for
+  their children. Such fathers and mothers have high hopes that
+  from their home will go forth noble men and women&mdash;yes, even
+  heroes. Many fail to realize the attainment of this ideal in
+  their children, because of a lack of the knowledge necessary to
+  bring about the desired development in the child-life.</p>
+
+  <p>The following pages were written with the fervent hope that
+  they would, at least in some measure, be a help in developing the
+  young lives entrusted to your care. If your harvest-time is past;
+  if your children have grown up and have left the old home, you
+  may be able to help some one who still has little ones to
+  train.</p>
+
+  <p>One object in relating actual experiences was that the reader
+  might be guided in the application of those principles of
+  child-training which, if merely stated in the abstract, might be
+  hard to understand and difficult of application. The principles
+  herein stated are not mere theories, but they have the
+  commendation of having stood the test of use. Two other objects
+  of this simple story of home life are that the thoughtful mother
+  may get a view of the effects of certain extreme environments on
+  the child-life and, by observing the substantial results
+  accomplished by a praying mother, she may discover the secret of
+  success.</p>
+
+  <p>The incidents of this little home story are all true, even to
+  minute details, as far as memory serves one of the actors in this
+  drama of home life after the lapse of many years; but as most of
+  the principal characters are still living, the correct names
+  have, for the most part, been withheld. Should one of your
+  children ask, "Mama, who was Bessie Worthington?" you can
+  truthfully answer, "She was a little girl who lived in Michigan;
+  and she and her papa and mama are still living."</p>
+
+  <p>If, by reading this little book, any mother shall see wherein
+  she can improve upon her past teaching, and thus be able to do
+  more for the spiritual and moral well-being of her children, the
+  writer will feel amply rewarded. May the blessing of God attend
+  it as it goes forth.</p><span style="margin-left: 3em;">Yours in
+  Him,</span><br>
+  <span style="margin-left: 4em;">Isabel C. Byrum.</span><br>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CONTENTS"></a>
+
+  <h2>CONTENTS.</h2><a href="#CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I.</a> - Two
+  Scenes<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II.</a> - A Praying Mother<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III.</a> - Early Training<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV.</a> - God's Care<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V.</a> - Consecration<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI.</a> - Conscience<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII.</a> - A Downward Step<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII.</a> - A Wise Decision<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX.</a> - Self-Control<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X.</a> - Parental Control<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI.</a> - Christian Experience<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XII">CHAPTER XII.</a> - The Beautiful
+  Secret<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">CHAPTER XIII.</a> - Blessing and
+  Trial<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XIV">CHAPTER XIV.</a> - The Surprise Party<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XV">CHAPTER XV.</a> - Leroy's Healing<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XVI">CHAPTER XVI.</a> - Explaining the Divine
+  Life<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XVII">CHAPTER XVII.</a> - Temptations<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XVIII">CHAPTER XVIII.</a> - Answers to
+  Prayer<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XIX">CHAPTER XIX.</a> - Lost in the Woods<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XX">CHAPTER XX.</a> - Novel-Reading<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXI">CHAPTER XXI.</a> - Glad Tidings<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXII">CHAPTER XXII.</a> - The Meetings<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIII">CHAPTER XXIII.</a> - Bessie Sees Her
+  Duty<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXIV">CHAPTER XXIV.</a> - Reverie<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXV">CHAPTER XXV.</a> - A Plea to Mothers<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVI">CHAPTER XXVI.</a> - Parental Duty<br>
+  <a href="#CHAPTER_XXVII">CHAPTER XXVII.</a> - Useful Hints<br>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="THE_VALUE_OF_A_PRAYING_MOTHER"></a>
+
+  <h2>THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER</h2>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_I"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER I.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    TWO SCENES.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>How delightful to step into the home where God is counselor of
+  both parent and child! How blessed the companionship in such a
+  home! There God counsels in sweet, tender tones. He teaches his
+  will and gives the needed wisdom. God is man's truest and best
+  teacher. James says, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of
+  God, that giveth to all men liberally ... and it shall be given
+  him." Be the home ever so beautiful, if it is not a house of
+  prayer, it is not a place of true happiness. Parents should often
+  commune with the Lord; especially the mother, with her many cares
+  and perplexities, if she would do justice to the little ones
+  entrusted to her care.</p>
+
+  <p>A beautiful picture now comes to my mind&mdash;a picture of an
+  ideal mother of olden time. She dwelt in Ramah of Palestine. Her
+  lonely home nestled among the lonely hills. She loved to commune
+  with the Lord, for deep in her bosom she carried a sorrow that
+  only he could help her to bear. Her home lacked that sweet
+  sunlight which innocent childhood brings. She longed and prayed
+  for a little life to guide and direct in the ways of the
+  Lord.</p>
+
+  <p>Once every year she went with her husband to Shiloh, where
+  sacrifices were offered, and there publicly worshiped the Lord.
+  When at the house of the Lord one day, she prayed long and
+  earnestly that God would grant the desire of her heart. "O Lord
+  of hosts," she prayed, "if thou wilt indeed look on the
+  affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget
+  thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child,
+  then I will give him unto the Lord all the days of his life, and
+  there shall no razor come upon his head."</p>
+
+  <p>A scene like this must have been rare even to the priest of
+  God; for he mistook this sad woman for one drunken with wine. She
+  begged him not to look upon her as such. When the man of God saw
+  by her modest, earnest words that she was not drunken as he had
+  supposed, he changed his reproof into a blessing. "Go in peace,"
+  he said, "and the God of Israel grant thy petition that thou hast
+  asked of him." With perfect confidence that God had heard and
+  answered prayer, the woman arose and returned with her husband to
+  their home in Ramah.</p>
+
+  <p>The next year she did not go up to Shiloh; for God had granted
+  her petition and had given her a little son. Her husband was
+  willing for her to remain at home, but he cautioned her not to
+  forget her promise to the Lord. He feared, perhaps, that the
+  mother might become so attached to her child that she would be
+  unwilling to part with him as she had promised. His warning was
+  unnecessary.</p>
+
+  <p>As soon as Samuel (for this is what the mother named her son)
+  was old enough to be useful, she took him to the house of God and
+  presented him to the Lord. It must have sounded to the aged
+  priest (who soon would have to cease his work upon earth) like a
+  voice from heaven, when the happy mother, pointing to her child,
+  said: "For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my
+  petition which I asked of him: therefore also I have lent him to
+  the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the Lord."</p>
+
+  <p>Again the mother prays; this time not in sorrow, but from a
+  heart filled with thanksgiving. She feels no regret because of
+  her vow. Her child became a great blessing to many people, and
+  the Lord gave her other sons and daughters to cheer her
+  heart.</p>
+
+  <p>By reading the story we find that "the child Samuel grew and
+  was in favor both with the Lord and also with men." Why was this?
+  In answer to his devoted mother's prayer, the Holy Spirit hovered
+  over that child, shielding him from the cruel darts and arrows of
+  the enemy. He had been taught the ways of the Lord from his
+  cradle and his life was fully consecrated to God.</p>
+
+  <p>A different scene comes before me now&mdash;a scene that
+  brings a shudder. Upon a ship sailing along the shores of France
+  were a man and his wife on their way to join a band of villainous
+  people in India. Being on a secret mission, they traveled slowly
+  and carefully. It was a tedious and dangerous journey. One stormy
+  day, on the Bay of Biscay, a child was born to them.</p>
+
+  <p>No loving welcome from the lips of a prayerful parent awaited
+  this poor little innocent child; instead, curses were his
+  portion, and, by the order of his mother, he was cast aside in a
+  pile of rubbish to die. By chance the father passed that way and,
+  finding his child's poor little perishing form, picked it up,
+  took it to his wife, and commanded her to see that it was cared
+  for.</p>
+
+  <p>As the child grew and developed in this atmosphere of sin and
+  degradation, is it strange that he partook of his parents' nature
+  and developed even worse habits than they? Unless the proper home
+  influence is thrown around a child, he can not help suffering
+  from the inherited sins of his parents.</p>
+
+  <p>When this child became a man, he knew nothing of virtue and
+  honesty. His life was enveloped in a shroud of darkest crimes.
+  Leaving India, he went to Europe and from there sailed to
+  America. Each year found him better acquainted with court
+  proceedings and prison walls. It was a common thing for him to
+  break into a man's house and steal every valuable that he could
+  find.</p>
+
+  <p>I recently met this man and heard from his own lips the dark
+  story of his life. As he was relating an account of a desperate
+  burglary, I asked him what he would have done if the man of the
+  house had awakened. "Please do not ask me." he answered. "I was
+  always armed, and a man's life was no more to me than a dog's.
+  There are scenes that I can not, I dare not, recall, for I am a
+  changed man now."</p>
+
+  <p>Thank God, he is a changed man. He had not been too vile for
+  God to find. Jesus had cleansed his heart from all desire to do
+  evil. Having confessed his crimes and given himself up to be
+  punished, he had been sent to prison, but because of good
+  behavior had been soon pardoned. He is now spending his life
+  among the lower class, whom he understands so well and pities so
+  much, trying to show them the way of salvation.</p>
+
+  <p>Note the atmosphere that surrounded the cradle of each of the
+  babes of whom we have been speaking. In the first home we find
+  prayer, love, hope, and tenderness; in the last, sin, hatred,
+  crime, and villainy. Oh that mothers everywhere would take
+  warning! If only these two pictures could be framed and hung in
+  the recesses of every mother's heart where they might teach their
+  silent lesson! If only mothers might see how powerful for good or
+  evil is their influence; how the affections and the mental powers
+  may be moulded by prayer and maternal love, and how the
+  groundwork for the future of the child may be laid in its early
+  training!</p>
+
+  <p>A sensible mother has a charm and wields an influence that
+  takes a fast hold on the hearts of those who are dear to her. The
+  kindly sympathy of youth, the deep affection of manhood, can be
+  traced to influences that began at mother's knee.</p>
+
+  <p>What true, prayerful mother does not feel as her child closely
+  nestles to her bosom that she is invested with a divine,
+  mysterious power, an influence which she can not understand? Then
+  it is that she sees her imperfections and longs for wisdom to
+  know how to guide her child. God alone can supply that
+  understanding. She is her child's book of wisdom, love, and,
+  beauty, but she should be of God's writing.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_II"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER II.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    A PRAYING MOTHER.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Still another mother comes before my mind&mdash;an earnest,
+  zealous, pious mother, who fashioned her life and example
+  continually by God's Word and endeavored daily to teach her
+  children the deep truths of salvation in language so simple that
+  they could understand, to seek out the causes of their failures
+  and discouragements, and to give them timely advice and
+  instruction.</p>
+
+  <p>As I trace a few of her experiences, which are all true
+  incidents, I trust they may sink into some perplexed mother's
+  heart and enable her to wield the instruments of love and prayer
+  about her darlings and to be more able to guide their tender
+  hearts in the right course.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington lived in the great city of Chicago, in a
+  small cottage on Portland Avenue near Thirty-first Street.
+  Nothing about the dwelling was elaborate; everything was simple,
+  but very neat. Pretty vines trailed gracefully over the porch and
+  windows, and a few flower beds filled up the dull nooks and
+  corners. In front of the house was a grassy lawn enclosed by a
+  picket fence. Here the children could play apart from the rough
+  waifs that thronged the street. Within the cottage the same quiet
+  taste was in evidence.</p>
+
+  <p>Every day in her cozy sitting-room Mrs. Worthington talked
+  with her little girls, Bessie and Louise. In times of trouble and
+  perplexity she bowed with them in prayer. How much the children
+  enjoyed their mother's comradeship and counsel! The mother
+  realized the importance of these early impressions made on the
+  child's mind. She had promised God to do all in her power to
+  train her children for heaven. She had commenced early, even from
+  the time she had first looked into the depths of their innocent
+  eyes.</p>
+
+  <p>She had taught them that when any trouble arose between them,
+  they were to kneel in prayer and ask God to help the one who had
+  done wrong. Once she heard Bessie say, "Louise, I have prayed for
+  you three times, and I believe I shall have to pray for you
+  again." Louise was not a bad child; she had as sweet and happy a
+  disposition as Bessie; but, as with all small children, little
+  difficulties arose between them.</p>
+
+  <p>Wishing to know what her two little girls would do on such an
+  occasion, she watched them. Bessie quietly took her little
+  sister's hand, lead her aside, and knelt with her in prayer. Then
+  with all earnestness she prayed, "O Lord, help Louise to to be
+  good, for Jesus' sake. Amen." The prayer, though short, was
+  effectual; for both went back to their play with happy faces, and
+  they had no more trouble that day.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_III"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER III.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    EARLY TRAINING.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As the daily teaching continued, Mrs. Worthington taught her
+  children many helpful lessons. She told them of the great
+  necessity of a Savior and of his mission to humanity. She taught
+  them how God looked upon disobedience, and always illustrated her
+  talks with interesting Bible stories and their every-day
+  experiences. In this way she taught them not only the evil
+  effects of wrong-doing but also the sure reward of
+  right-doing.</p>
+
+  <p>One summer, while the family was spending their vacation in
+  Michigan at the pretty country home of an aunt, something
+  happened that helped the children to apprehend their mother's
+  meaning. This incident, although in some measure painful to Mrs.
+  Worthington, impressed the lesson upon their young minds almost
+  better than anything else could have.</p>
+
+  <p>The house was situated upon a hill that sloped gradually down
+  to the shore of a lake. In many ways this lake was very
+  attractive, especially to the two little girls, who were then at
+  the ages of two and four years. Mrs. Worthington carefully warned
+  the children of the danger of playing near the lake shore; but,
+  not realizing the greatness of their temptation, she trusted them
+  too far. Time after time they made their way down to the water's
+  edge. Something must be done; but what?</p>
+
+  <p>One morning Mr. Worthington noticed his little daughters
+  standing in front of the house. Although he could not hear their
+  words, he clearly perceived that they were talking about a trip
+  to the forbidden lake. They hesitated some time, but at last
+  walked slowly down the hillside to the lake. Again they
+  hesitated. Finally descending the steps of the boat-house, they
+  stepped into the sparkling water. How dainty the ripples about
+  their feet, and how clear the water!</p>
+
+  <p>"Surely there can be no harm or danger," thought Bessie; but
+  she remembered the oft-repeated warnings of her parents and aunt.
+  The shells lost their beauty when she remembered hearing her
+  father say that bears sometimes travel up and down the shores.
+  What if a bear should some that morning? She gave a quick,
+  searching glance among the trees, but, seeing nothing, she tried
+  to forget about bears. She might have been able to forget about
+  them, but she could not forget that she was disobedient. Her
+  conscience would not let her; the more she tried to forget, the
+  louder it talked. She was just about to take her little sister
+  back to the house, when she heard a rustling among the branches
+  of a tall tree directly above the path over which she must pass.
+  The next moment she thought she heard a low growl. "O Louise,"
+  she cried, "I do believe that is the bear papa told us about."
+  The tree then began to sway from side to side and they heard
+  another growl, louder than the first. Seizing her little sister's
+  hand, Bessie hastened to help her out of the water. By this time
+  both were thoroughly frightened; for while visiting one of the
+  parks in Chicago once, they had seen a bear hug his keeper until
+  he could not stand. Bessie remembered the incident and tried to
+  help Louise to hurry; but when the tree shook again, this time
+  just above her, she screamed wildly and ran a few steps alone.
+  When she got past the danger-point her reason returned, and,
+  looking back, she saw her sister's great danger, as she stood
+  just beneath the fatal tree. Rushing back, she almost carried
+  Louise (while the growling continued), and they were soon up the
+  hill. In the house they told of their strange experience, the
+  substance of the story being, "The bear; The bear!"</p>
+
+  <p>Mr. Worthington soon joined the excited circle and secretly
+  explained to his wife that he had been the supposed bear and that
+  he had taken this course to teach the children a lesson. His plan
+  was successful, for after that the children did not care to go to
+  the lake alone.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington, however, was very sad because her children
+  had been deceived. Unlike her husband, who was not a Christian,
+  she believed in keeping the confidence of her children and in
+  praying with them when they were disobedient. She decided to be
+  more prompt and watchful in the future and to shield them from
+  temptation as much as possible.</p>
+
+  <p>She improved the opportunity for some wholesome instruction.
+  From the stories of Jonah and King Saul she brought forth some
+  excellent lessons on disobedience. She told the children that,
+  although they might think when tempted to disobey that nobody saw
+  them, yet there was one whose eye was ever beholding their deeds,
+  whether good or bad. Then she knelt in prayer with her children,
+  praying with a full heart to that God who is everywhere present
+  and from whom all our strength must come, that he would teach her
+  how to guide the precious souls entrusted to her care.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_IV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER IV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    GOD'S CARE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Considering this mother's deep piety, do you think it strange
+  that she saw God's hand in everything that befell her, and
+  ascribed praise to him for it all?</p>
+
+  <p>After the return of the family to their home in Chicago the
+  father became very ill. His sickness was so severe and so long
+  continued that poverty began to threaten them. Mr. Worthington
+  could not take the resigned view of their circumstances that his
+  wife took, but often gave way to complaining. But Mrs.
+  Worthington thanked God that things were no worse and ever
+  encouraged her husband with the promises that God would
+  provide.</p>
+
+  <p>At last Christmas morning came and found them in extreme
+  poverty. Mr. Worthington still weak from his illness, but able to
+  go around a little, came in from his morning walk very gloomy and
+  feeling that his friends were very few. "This is the saddest
+  Christmas I have ever known," he said to Mrs. Worthington. "It is
+  almost more than I can bear to know that I have nothing to give
+  the children today, and barely enough in the house to eat. I did
+  not realize it so keenly until I saw an old man trudging along
+  Thirty-first Street with a large pack upon his back. That man was
+  surely going to surprise some of his friends. How much we need a
+  friend like that!" "Never mind," said Mrs. Worthington softly;
+  "God has promised to be a friend in time of need, and I believe
+  he will care for us today."</p>
+
+  <p>As she finished speaking, a rap was heard at the door. Mr.
+  Worthington arose slowly, wondering who could be their early
+  caller. When he opened the door, he was greatly surprised to see
+  the aged man with the pack and to find him to be his own father.
+  Mr. Worthington had entered the house too soon to see his father
+  turn the corner and enter the yard.</p>
+
+  <p>As the large burden was laid upon the floor and unpacked,
+  there seemed to be no end to the good things. A turkey, cake,
+  pies, in fact, all that was needful for a generous Christmas
+  dinner, as well as a gift for each one. It was a very thankful
+  family that gathered around the table that day.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_V"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER V.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    CONSECRATION.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>In regard to her children, Mrs. Worthington had passed through
+  a deep consecration. She fully realized that they were only lent
+  her by the Lord, entrusted to her care to be trained for
+  usefulness in his service, and she was determined to do all in
+  her power to prepare them as the Lord intended. In all sincerity,
+  she had placed her children upon the altar of consecration,
+  promising God never to let her will interfere with his designs
+  concerning them.</p>
+
+  <p>I do not think a child of God ever makes a consecration that
+  is not tested in some form or other. This mother's consecration
+  was tested.</p>
+
+  <p>A wealthy aunt, having lost all her children and being very
+  lonely, thought to fill the vacancy in her heart and home by
+  adopting a little child. After several vain attempts to find a
+  suitable child, she sought the home of her niece, Mrs.
+  Worthington. She came with many misgivings. When she made her
+  errand known, her niece said: "Auntie, my children are no longer
+  mine; I have given them to the Lord, and whatever is his will
+  concerning them shall be mine. You will have to obtain my
+  husband's consent." Thus far Aunt A. was delighted with her
+  success, and she eagerly sought the father. She tried to point
+  out to Mrs. Worthington, who was heartbroken at the prospect of
+  losing her child, how abundantly able she (the aunt) was to
+  provide for the child and spoke of the extreme poverty of the
+  Worthington home. The mother knew all this, but she knew too that
+  God's Spirit does not always rule in wealthy homes. Would she do
+  right to let her child slip from under her parental care? Many
+  thoughts of this nature surged through her brain, and many
+  temptations to say no came to her; but instead of giving a
+  decisive answer she sought counsel from the all-wise Counselor.
+  While in prayer she thought of faithful Abraham's trial regarding
+  Isaac, and she felt that God was just as able to carry her
+  through temptation or test, if she submitted all to his will.</p>
+
+  <p>Mr. Worthington gave his consent for one of the children to go
+  for a visit. The aunt having chosen Bessie, hasty preparations
+  were made for their departure. As the mother kissed her
+  curly-haired little girl good-by, her heart seemed bursting with
+  sorrow. She tried to control her feelings, but only God knew the
+  wound that her aunt's parting words made. "Use your influence in
+  my behalf, Niece, with your husband, in case we want to keep
+  Bessie," she had said, and then the great train moved slowly from
+  the station. Abraham was all the mother could think of on her
+  return home. Oh! would God give her back her child?</p>
+
+  <p>Letter after letter came, each telling how fond the aunt and
+  her husband were of Bessie and how happy she was in her new home,
+  but not a word about her return. Four, five, six weeks passed.
+  Then one day a letter came stating that they had decided not to
+  adopt a child now and that, as Bessie was getting homesick, the
+  parents might expect her home the next day. Then, it had been
+  only a test! Oh, how glad Mrs. Worthington was that she had been
+  faithful. Yes, her God was the very same God that Abraham had
+  served centuries before. It was hard to wait until train-time the
+  next day. When once more the loving mother held her darling child
+  in her arms, the tears that could not flow for weeks streamed
+  freely.</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie was glad to be at home again. After the cold, formal,
+  loveless life at her aunt's, she appreciated her own humble home
+  more than ever before.</p>
+
+  <p>But a far greater test was waiting the dear mother&mdash;one
+  that would call for more than human strength to bear.</p>
+
+  <p>After Bessie's return Mrs. Worthington put forth every effort
+  to teach her children more about heavenly things. She bore in
+  mind the scripture, "Train up a child in the way it should go;
+  and when it is old, it will not depart from it." As she did not
+  want to fail along this line, she spent every spare moment with
+  her children. And she seldom let them go from home to visit
+  unaccompanied by her; but one day, being very busy, she let them
+  go alone to their grandmother's. The distance was not great, and
+  Bessie, now nearly six years old, knew the way perfectly. All
+  would have been well had their grandmother been at home. She
+  being away, the girls stopped to watch some children at play.
+  These children were breaking old bottles that they had picked up
+  in the alley. As the little girls stood watching the sport, a
+  large brown bottle was brought forth and with a heavy stroke of
+  the hammer was broken. Small pieces of the glass flew in every
+  direction. One piece struck Louise on the palm of the hand just
+  below the thumb, knocking off the skin, but not producing a wound
+  deep enough to bleed. Her grandmother, who appeared on the scene
+  just at this time, examined the wound. She though it would soon
+  be all right, but bound it up with a cloth to satisfy the child.
+  The children played as usual and then returned home in time for
+  supper.</p>
+
+  <p>When they came in, their mother, who had been very busy
+  through the day at housecleaning, was preparing a hasty supper,
+  and she gave them no special attention. The family were soon
+  seated around the supper-table. They had not been there long
+  until Mrs. Worthington noticed that Louise was not eating. She
+  asked the child why she did not eat, but received no reply. On
+  being asked if her throat was sore, Louise nodded her head. Still
+  the mother did not think the child's condition serious; and,
+  after pinning a flannel around the child's neck, she did the
+  evening work and prepared to attend a prayer-meeting. She had
+  noticed the rag upon Louise's hand, but Bessie had laughed about
+  the little cut and said, "Grandma tied it up just to please
+  Louise."</p>
+
+  <p>Although the meeting that night was unusually good, Mrs.
+  Worthington could not forget the expression on her child's face
+  as they had kissed each other good-by. It seemed to be before her
+  all the time; so she really felt relieved when the meeting closed
+  and she could return.</p>
+
+  <p>Upon entering her home she immediately asked her husband, "How
+  is Louise?" He answered that she had been very naughty and cross
+  and that he had been obliged to punish her. This news increased
+  the mother's fears. Feeling of the child's head, she found it hot
+  and feverish.</p>
+
+  <p>As Louise continued to grow worse, at two o'clock in the
+  morning Mrs. Worthington thought it best to examine the child's
+  throat; but when the mother asked the little girl to open her
+  mouth, she said, "Mama, I can't."</p>
+
+  <p>"What!" exclaimed the mother, "you can not open your mouth!
+  Why, child, what is the matter with you?" Although Louise tried
+  repeatedly to open her mouth, she could force her teeth apart
+  only about an eighth of an inch, and only with great difficulty
+  could she speak.</p>
+
+  <p>By this time Mr. Worthington had fully awakened to the fact
+  that something serious was troubling his child, and he sprang to
+  her side. As soon as possible they summoned a doctor. He found
+  that the cut on her hand had caused lockjaw, but said that there
+  was no cause for alarm. The parents, however, felt very anxious
+  and called in several doctors for consultation. They found that
+  it was too late to do anything for the child. "The course of this
+  disease," said the doctors, "is usually very rapid; and we are
+  sorry that we can offer no hope."</p>
+
+  <p>When Mrs. Worthington heard the doctors' verdict, anguish such
+  as she had never experienced before filled her soul. Her thoughts
+  went back to the previous night. Oh! why had she not examined the
+  child closely then? In her distress she cried to the Lord,
+  saying, "Dear Lord, what can this mean? Must I go through another
+  test with one of my children? If so, help me to say amen to thy
+  will!"</p>
+
+  <p>Everything possible was done for the comfort of the little
+  sufferer. The little life was swiftly nearing its close. Even
+  when the doctors injected medicine into her arm to relieve her
+  pain, she did not murmur. Forgetful for a moment of her
+  suffering, she looked into her mother's eyes and said, "Mama, I
+  love you"; then turning to her father, "Papa, I love you"; and
+  then to the doctors and friends, "I like all these folks."</p>
+
+  <p>What a beautiful testimony? She had only kindly feelings in
+  her heart for all, even for the doctors, who seemed to be her
+  enemies. Her words were as a message sent from God as they fell
+  into that mother's heart. They seemed as sweet incense and a
+  soothing balm to her troubled spirit. Gazing into the child's
+  face, the mother read of the tender, compassionate love of God
+  for suffering humanity; she read of the depth of Christ's love
+  for the innocent and pure; and, by the heavenly smile that
+  lighted the little face as her darling sank into unconsciousness,
+  she saw that the child realized her Savior's presence.</p>
+
+  <p>Slowly the tide is going out; the soul of the child is passing
+  from the mother's presence into life immortal. "O my darling,
+  speak to me once more!" The large blue eyes slowly unclose; a
+  look of disappointment comes into them as she says, "Where has
+  Jesus gone?" The dear eyes softly close; she sinks again into
+  unconsciousness; the beautiful expression of happiness returns;
+  the mother knows that her darling is in the arms of Jesus and is
+  content.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington did not sorrow as those who have no hope; for
+  she knew that her heavenly Father knew best, and she could look
+  up with confidence and say, "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath
+  taken away: blessed be the name of the Lord." With the father it
+  was different. Up to this time he had never had any serious
+  thoughts of a future life. He knew that his wife was a good
+  woman, but he considered her religious views rather strange. She
+  had seen so much error among the popular religious denominations
+  and had felt such bondage when meeting with them, that she
+  worshiped with a few spiritual people in a little prayer-meeting.
+  Because of this peculiarity, he had even feared that her mind was
+  affected; but now, when he saw her fortitude under deep trial, he
+  felt that surely there was an unseen power supporting her&mdash;a
+  power that he secretly longed to possess, although the time for
+  attaining it he set indefinitely in the future.</p>
+
+  <p>As Louise had been his idol, his grief was deep. It stirred
+  his whole being. Her last testimony had convinced him that there
+  is a Savior, that he is interested in mankind, and that he is
+  able to keep in every affliction. Standing by the cold, lifeless
+  form of his little daughter, he promised God that he would meet
+  her in heaven.</p>
+
+  <p>After these things Mrs. Worthington realized more keenly than
+  ever the value of confidence between children and parents. With
+  renewed energy she sought daily to strengthen that cord which now
+  seemed to her almost divine. Her daily talks now contained a
+  richer and deeper meaning to Bessie, whose understanding of
+  heavenly things was growing clearer since her sister's death.
+  Through her mother's teaching she gained a knowledge of God and
+  spiritual life that would have taken her many, many years to
+  comprehend had she been left to herself.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was surprised and pleased to note Bessie's
+  confidence in her mother's teaching. One day, in answer to the
+  assertion of a little neighbor girl that Louise was not alive,
+  but dead and buried, Bessie said, "I know Sister's body is dead
+  and buried, but her soul is living with Jesus. He was waiting for
+  her when she died and took her soul away with him."</p>
+
+  <p>"I am glad, my child," said her mother, sometime after this
+  conversation, "that you love to come to me with things that
+  trouble you; for as you're going to school now, you can not help
+  hearing and seeing many things that I would rather keep from you
+  until you're older. You'll see and hear many things that you
+  should allow no place in your life; but if you'll always come to
+  me, I'll instruct you so that they'll not be harmful to you. When
+  I was a child, how I longed for some one in whom I could confide!
+  My mother was a good woman, but she didn't realize how I often
+  longed to unburden my heart to her. Father understood this
+  desire, and we often had confidential talks.</p>
+
+  <p>"I shall never forget my gratitude when he took me upon his
+  knee one day and told me about many dangers young girls must meet
+  and explained how I might avoid them. His words were just in
+  time; for I had often been allowed to spend the evening at the
+  home of a little friend, who, like myself, was not taught how to
+  meet danger. At first our play had been innocent sports, but a
+  short time before my father's talk a cousin had come to board
+  with the family and attend school. He at once encouraged us to
+  play a game of cards with him. As I knew nothing of the evil of
+  card-playing, I was eager to learn; for he gave me much praise
+  and allowed me to win very often, always rewarding me with a pile
+  of candy. The appearance of so much candy in my possession had
+  led to my father's talk. As father unfolded the nature of
+  card-playing and gambling, a horror for them that has never left
+  me came into my heart. After this I often sought my father's
+  counsel; his faithful admonitions and tender words of
+  encouragement caused me to have more and more confidence in
+  him."</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington sighed deeply as she continued, "The memory
+  of my dear father is sacred, Bessie. Many times I've thanked the
+  Lord that my father knew the worth of prayer and the value of the
+  confidence of his children. He helped me to tide over the most
+  critical period of my life, and I love to recall the
+  encouragement of his devoted life."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_VI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER VI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    CONSCIENCE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>One day when Bessie was about eight years old, she said:
+  "Mama, you've often told me that if I'd listen to the voice of
+  conscience it would keep me out of danger. What is conscience? I
+  don't understand."</p>
+
+  <p>"My dear child," answered her mother, "your happiness depends
+  upon a pure conscience, one that is void of offense. By the
+  Lord's help, I will gladly explain. Conscience is that which
+  causes us to feel bad when we do what we've been taught to be
+  wrong. At first it is very tender and active. Then, no matter how
+  enticing the temptation, the conscience will warn one not to
+  yield. You've heard your conscience speaking to you, haven't you,
+  Bessie?"</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes, Mama," answered Bessie; "that was why I wanted to know
+  more about it. I thought at first it was some person speaking;
+  but when I remembered you had told me that we each have a
+  conscience to tell us to do right, I knew it must be the voice of
+  conscience."</p>
+
+  <p>"When it speaks, you must listen," said Mrs. Worthington.
+  "Give heed to its warnings. This little story will show you how
+  careful we should be to heed the warning voice of conscience.</p>
+
+  <p>"'Wishing to arise at an early hour each morning, a gentleman
+  purchased an alarm-clock. He took it home, and, having set it,
+  went to bed and slept soundly. In the morning, to the gentleman's
+  great delight, the clock aroused him, so that he was able to get
+  to work in time.</p>
+
+  <p>"'For a time he would spring out of bed as soon as the alarm
+  sounded, and the clock never failed to wake him. One morning,
+  however, on hearing the clock sound its usual alarm, he awoke,
+  but, feeling a little sleepy, he lay back on his pillow, thinking
+  that he would get up in a short time. In a few minutes he fell
+  asleep, and did not awake again until very late. He dressed
+  hastily, and, missing his breakfast, hurried away to his work. He
+  resolved not to be so foolish again, and for a time did better;
+  but in a few days he had again overslept. He became more and more
+  neglectful, failing time after time to heed the alarm. At length
+  it only partially aroused him, and he soon slumbered again. Day
+  by day it disturbed him less, until at last it did not arouse him
+  at all, although it sounded as loudly as ever.'</p>
+
+  <p>"So will it be with your conscience. If you don't heed its
+  voice, you'll hear it speaking less loudly each day until its
+  voice will at last cause you no discomfort. You'll then be in a
+  very dangerous moral condition. No one but God can help you out.
+  This is one reason why, Bessie, many people can do things that
+  you can not.</p>
+
+  <p>"Satan aimed his first blow at the conscience; for if he can
+  silence it, then he can lead the soul deeper and deeper into
+  sin."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_VII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER VII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    A DOWNWARD STEP.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>"I have good news for you, Bessie," said Mrs. Worthington as
+  Bessie came skipping into the room from her play. "Your papa and
+  I have decided to leave our little home here in Chicago and buy a
+  home in Michigan."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, how nice!" exclaimed Bessie, who was still in her eighth
+  year. "Shall we live with Aunt Emma again?"</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes, or rather she will live with us," said her mother,
+  smiling. "Your auntie's health is very poor, and she is tired of
+  the responsibility of farming; so we'll relieve her."</p>
+
+  <p>The following weeks were happy ones for Bessie. The Lord had
+  been good to her in many ways. He had given her a little baby
+  brother to love and care for, and now she was about to have a
+  pleasant home in the country. She had not forgotten the good
+  times she had enjoyed on the farm with her little sister, and she
+  was very eager for the month of August to come, the time when the
+  family was to move. At last the time came to start. With beating
+  heart Bessie counted the hours that must pass before she could
+  run in the orchard and eat the luscious fruit.</p>
+
+  <p>It was late in the afternoon when the Worthington family
+  arrived at their new home. The greetings over, Bessie was
+  contemplating a ramble where she had noticed some large red
+  apples hanging; but just then her aunt said, "Bessie, you must
+  not pick any of the fruit on the place this summer, as the farm
+  is rented and the fruit does not belong to us." This was such a
+  disappointment to the little girl that she could not restrain her
+  tears.</p>
+
+  <p>As the days passed by, she often looked longingly toward the
+  tree where hung the beautiful apples, but she never once thought
+  of pulling one, for her mother had carefully taught her the great
+  evil of stealing. "But oh!" thought Bessie, "if only one of the
+  apples would fall upon the ground, I could pick it up, and I
+  wouldn't be stealing it." With this wish in her heart, she daily
+  watched the trees in hopes that just one would fall.</p>
+
+  <p>At last her hope was realized. Walking through the orchard one
+  day after a hard wind-storm, she spied several large red apples
+  lying in the soft sand. With a fast-beating heart, she hastened
+  to pick them all up; and, placing them carefully in her apron,
+  she hurried to the house, oft repeating to herself, "I didn't
+  steal them, for the wind blew them off."</p>
+
+  <p>As she entered the house, she began to tell how she came by
+  the apples, but stopped in dismay, for she saw her mother's look
+  of disapproval. Very tenderly Mrs. Worthington took her little
+  daughter aside and, sitting down by her, said: "My dear, you
+  don't understand what you've done: those apples are as truly
+  stolen as if you had picked them from the tree. You must take
+  them to Mrs. S. and explain that you didn't know you were
+  stealing them. Taking little things and trying to ease the
+  conscience by saying, 'It doesn't amount to anything,' causes the
+  conscience to fall asleep and to cease its activity. Thus the
+  evil habit of taking what doesn't belong to us becomes a part of
+  our nature, and step by step we fall into greater sin.</p>
+
+  <p>"I once heard of a young man who was about to be hanged upon
+  the gallows. Just before the fatal moment he received permission
+  to speak to any of his friends, if he desired. Calling for his
+  aunt, who had reared him, he moved forward as if to speak to her,
+  but instead he bit off her ear. Amid the exclamations of horror
+  that followed, the young man said: 'You think what I have done is
+  cruel. Let me tell you that, had my aunt done her duty by me, I
+  should not be here today. Had she taken the pains to inquire
+  where I obtained the lead pencils, knives, handkerchiefs, and
+  other small articles which I brought home from time to time; had
+  she not accepted the flimsy excuse that I had found them; had she
+  warned me of my danger, and not praised me for "finding" the
+  things I had stolen,&mdash;I might have escaped this awful
+  end.'</p>
+
+  <p>"So, Bessie, you can see the danger of allowing anything like
+  this&mdash;though it does appear a trifle&mdash;to pass by
+  unnoticed. You may go and return the apples to Mrs. S., who is
+  now in the orchard."</p>
+
+  <p>The lesson was severe and lasting; and as Bessie returned the
+  apples to their rightful owner, it settled deep into her
+  heart.</p>
+
+  <p>Parents, beware. Through neglect, the habit of lying begins.
+  An untruth is passed over carelessly and the child allowed to
+  cover up its sins without realizing their sinfulness. Likewise,
+  many other evil habits that have wrecked lives and brought sorrow
+  and disgrace into homes may be traced to the same carelessness on
+  the part of parents and friends.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_VIII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER VIII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    A WISE DECISION.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>The lake in front of the Worthington home, though nearly five
+  miles in length, had too small a harbor to permit the entrance of
+  the large Chicago boats. It was therefore necessary, each evening
+  in summer, for small steamboats to gather up the fruit from the
+  farms along the lake and to carry it to the nearest port for
+  large steamers. It was interesting to see the piles of berry
+  crates loaded upon the steamer from the docks extending out into
+  the lake. At such times a crowd of young people frequently
+  arranged to go for a pleasant ride on Lake Michigan, and a few
+  times Bessie had gone.</p>
+
+  <p>There was to be such an excursion on the occasion of which I
+  wish to speak, and the young people expected to attend a circus
+  in a city close to the haven to which they were going. Bessie
+  wished very much to go. She soon obtained her father's consent,
+  but went to her mother with many misgivings, for she knew that
+  her mother never went to a circus and that she had always spoken
+  against her going at other times.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was very busy, but she always had time to
+  advise her daughter and to hear her requests. She listened
+  carefully to every word her daughter had to say, and then
+  remained silent for a few minutes. At length she said: "Bessie,
+  there are many things to consider about your going. You know how
+  I love to have you go for a ride on the water when I know you are
+  in good company. I also love to have you attend places of
+  interest to you, when I know there's nothing to defile your mind
+  or lead you from the path of purity. But, Daughter, there are
+  many things in the world that look beautiful to the eye but tend
+  to lead the soul astray. Do you think Jesus would go to a circus?
+  Do you think you could get any good should you go? You have
+  passed your tenth birthday. I think you're old enough to take
+  this matter to God in prayer and let him decide it for you. Go
+  and ask him to direct you to some passage of Scripture that will
+  open your understanding and help you to know what he wants you to
+  do."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, mama," said Bessie, who had felt strange about the
+  matter, "please tell me yes or no, and I'll say no more about
+  it."</p>
+
+  <p>"No, Bessie; it will, in many ways, be better for you to do as
+  I've said," answered her mother tenderly but decisively.</p>
+
+  <p>Very reluctantly Bessie left the room, and, taking her Bible,
+  whispered a prayer that she might open it to something that would
+  help her to decide. As she opened the book, her eyes fell upon
+  these words: "Vanity of vanities, saith the preacher, vanity of
+  vanities; all is vanity." Hurriedly she turned the pages,
+  thinking that she might perhaps have opened to that passage
+  anyway. Next she read, "I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will
+  prove thee with mirth; therefore, enjoy pleasure: and behold this
+  also is vanity." Returning to her mother, she read the words, but
+  ended by saying, "I might have turned to that anyway."</p>
+
+  <p>"Bessie," said Mrs. Worthington, "those words were written by
+  the wisest man the world has ever known, one who had the
+  privilege of enjoying every known pleasure under the sun. But
+  when he had tried them all, he sat down and wrote the words you
+  have just read, and also said, 'All is vanity and vexation of
+  spirit.' Now you have my view of the subject, and you have
+  Solomon's; but if you are still in doubt, go and pray."</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie was not satisfied. She slipped away the second time and
+  fell upon her knees. She cried, "O Lord, you once answered Gideon
+  with a sign; now please give me a sign and help me to know
+  whether I should stay at home or not. If you don't want me to go,
+  make it rain." Though simple and short, the prayer came from the
+  heart. She was determined to know God's will concerning her; and
+  to such God never turns a deaf ear.</p>
+
+  <p>The next morning she went to the door and looked at the sky.
+  The day was perfect. The sun was shining brightly, and a cool,
+  gentle breeze was blowing. Just one tiny cloud was in the sky,
+  and that seemed to be floating toward the sun. As she watched the
+  cloud, she saw it gradually increase in size, and at last down
+  came the rain in great drops. Nothing further was needed to
+  convince Bessie that God wanted her to remain at home; and now
+  her staying was no longer a cross to her.</p>
+
+  <p>She ran to her father and explained that God did not want her
+  to go, telling him about her prayer and its answer. Her childish
+  words and simple faith touched her father's proud heart, but all
+  he said was, "It's all right, Bessie; but you'll go down to the
+  landing and say good-by to your friends, won't you?"</p>
+
+  <p>As she told the girls why she could not go with them and
+  watched the gay party leave the shore, she was not sad, but
+  happy. She kept thinking how kind the dear Lord had been to
+  answer her prayer so wonderfully. When bedtime came, she rested
+  sweetly, having no wounded conscience to trouble or accuse
+  her.</p>
+
+  <p>But how about the excursion party? They had an ideal trip on
+  Lake Michigan, attended the show, and started to return. The
+  breeze that had been so gently blowing through the day began to
+  increase at sunset, and by the late hour of their return it had
+  become a gale. But not realizing the fierceness of the storm,
+  they started home. When they reached their own harbor, they found
+  that they could not enter with safety; so they anchored the boat
+  and spent the remainder of the night on the wildly tossing waves.
+  In the morning the wind gradually died away, and the weary,
+  seasick crowd made their way home.</p>
+
+  <p>When Bessie learned of their serious experience, she
+  appreciated more than ever the Lord's goodness in leading her to
+  stay at home.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_IX"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER IX.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    SELF-CONTROL.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was greatly encouraged when she saw what a
+  blessing her little girl had received from what appeared to be a
+  sore trial. She felt that the time was opportune to plant the
+  seed of self-control within the young heart. In a little while
+  she found an opportunity to begin.</p>
+
+  <p>"Bessie," she began when ready for the talk, "I have some
+  important things to tell you today. I wish to speak of your
+  future. There comes a time in the life of every girl when she
+  must change from childhood to womanhood; she can not always
+  remain a child. Until this time arrives, she is very dependent
+  and must lean entirely upon her parents' advice; but as her mind
+  begins to mature, she should be taught the necessity of weighing
+  matters well and of finding out God's will.</p>
+
+  <p>"Until the present time all you have done has been at the
+  suggestion of your parents, but it will be different in the
+  future. With your teaching, you are able to look to God for a
+  part of your direction. I shall continue to advise, and, if
+  necessary, to punish you; but I want you to take things to the
+  Lord in prayer and become satisfied within your heart that my
+  advice is according to the Word of God. You must not think you
+  haven't needed the teaching and the guidance you've had thus far
+  in life; and you'll need more careful training than you've ever
+  had. The point I want to impress upon your mind is that there's
+  an element within you, called self, that you must learn to
+  control. At times self will arise and cause you to feel that you
+  know some things even better than Mama. That is the time to
+  remember that Mama has had more experience than you; that her
+  judgment is better than yours; and that you must rely upon it
+  until God helps you to see a matter as she sees it. That was the
+  way you gained the blessing from that experience a few days ago.
+  In this way you will learn the lessons that are so important to
+  your future.</p>
+
+  <p>"There are many other things, my dear, that I want to talk to
+  you about soon, but you must be patient a little longer. In the
+  meantime, however, you may ask me any question you please, and
+  I'll answer you. Don't go to other girls with these things, but
+  come to me. I'm always glad to explain to you anything that seems
+  strange. When you're old enough to desire the knowledge and to
+  form the questions, you're old enough to receive an answer to
+  your questions. Come to me often: what seems strange to both of
+  us we can take to God in prayer, and let him teach us.</p>
+
+  <p>"Another thing you must do is to turn away from bad
+  associates. Avoid girls who say, 'I'll tell you something if
+  you'll promise not to tell your mother.' Remember that anything
+  you could not tell me would not be worth hearing; for it's sure
+  to be something unclean or vulgar. Conversing with such girls
+  won't help you to draw close to the Lord nor to know his will
+  concerning you. Much less would it help you to meditate upon the
+  pure and holy things of God. To elevate your soul, Bessie, you
+  must become serious, and seek only those companions whose
+  conversation is kind, gentle, and modest. I believe your desire
+  is to become more like Jesus and to prepare for heaven. So, my
+  child, meditate upon God, and you will grow in the grace and
+  knowledge of Christ. Misspent moments are so much of life and
+  character thrown away; be careful to use them all in God's
+  service.</p>
+
+  <p>"Here's a little poem you may learn. It may help you to
+  control self and to value your moments as you should."</p><br>
+
+  <center>
+    MY MOMENTS.
+  </center>
+
+  <div class="poem">
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Oh, my precious little moments,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Gliding now so swiftly by;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>May I each one spend for Jesus</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Ere I see them past me fly.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>May I lade each one with something</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>To be borne to God above,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Fill each full of deeds worth counting,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>That will prove my perfect love.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>For I would not have them enter</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Through those portals bright and fair</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Bearing not a single token</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>For my Master waiting there.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Golden moments, as you carry</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Trophies on your upward flight,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Take my character to Jesus;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>For I've kept it clean and white.</i></p>
+    </div>
+  </div>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_X"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER X.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    PARENTAL CONTROL.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was not only a prayerful mother, but a mother
+  wise in home government. Her wisdom, however, came from God. Many
+  a time she felt incapable of giving the advice her young daughter
+  needed; but she always remembered the scripture which reads, "If
+  any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all
+  men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given." After
+  she had spent a season in prayerful meditation, God would supply
+  the words and understanding. Thus she could say with the apostle
+  Paul, that her strength was made perfect in weakness, because her
+  dependence was in Christ.</p>
+
+  <p>O mothers, let us learn that God, the Author of home and
+  families, is always interested in the quality and the training of
+  the children. He does not create to cast aside. Neither does
+  anything come by chance. He wills that each tender human plant be
+  nourished and cherished until well fitted to fill its place and
+  calling in life. In childhood's dependent days, the parents
+  should be all to the children that they can not be to themselves.
+  It is not enough that your child be well fed and clothed; its
+  young mind must be guided into proper channels. What work is more
+  noble, more elevating than the teaching of the undeveloped mind?
+  Let not the duties of life nor the claims of society so press
+  upon you as to cause you to neglect your child's character or its
+  education in either temporal or spiritual matters.</p>
+
+  <p>As Solomon says, "Take away the little foxes that destroy the
+  vines." It is the little things passed carelessly by that grow
+  larger and larger, and stronger and stronger, within the young
+  heart until at last the unsuspecting parents awake in alarm to
+  behold their child in dreadful bondage. Beware! Guard your child
+  every moment it is under your care. You can not go as companion
+  to your child upon the street or to school, but your influence
+  may attend his every path through life. Do not be discouraged
+  should you hear him use a slang word, but take him at once and
+  tenderly tell him what slang phrases will lead to. Do not speak
+  harshly, but explain in the most loving manner possible. In this
+  way you will cultivate in him a distaste for impure language. A
+  pure, refined nature will be the result. Moreover, as that child
+  realizes through your faithful instruction, the true meaning of
+  sin, he will make you his confidant and will come to you rather
+  than seek the counsel of younger companions. Thus you will be
+  able to control his mind and to instil within his mind pure and
+  upright desires.</p>
+
+  <p>Within your home is the place to shine for God. There is no
+  greater field of labor. A Christian mother's influence among the
+  young can not be too highly valued. No one can fill your place in
+  the hearts of your children. Another can provide their temporal
+  needs, but nobody can take the place of Mother. No one else can
+  enter into the daily trials as you can. Nothing else can soothe
+  the wounded feelings as well as a tender embrace or a word from
+  mother. Be liberal, dear mothers, with these tokens of sympathy,
+  so sweet to your child; and think not for one moment that you are
+  not fulfilling God's plan concerning you or that moments thus
+  spent are wasted. It is only a short time at best that we can be
+  blessed with the privilege of instructing our children.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As Bessie grew older, Mrs. Worthington chose the twilight hour
+  for confidential talks with her daughter. Both looked forward to
+  these times with pleasure. Each evening after the daily duties
+  were ended, Bessie might be found sitting at her mother's feet.
+  Here she related the many happenings of the day and in turn
+  received instruction and advice from the one who held her
+  confidence. Here the mother taught her child the secret of true
+  devotion. She instructed Bessie that prayer, good reading, and
+  meditation are the keys to use to unlock God's great storehouse
+  of blessings. She pointed to the Bible as a pattern by which to
+  fashion one's life, pointing out to her the many scriptures
+  bearing upon different subjects and telling her how every modest,
+  earnest Christian ought to dress and act in order to adorn the
+  gospel of Christ. She encircled the word "purity" with such a
+  halo of glory that she awakened within the heart of her child a
+  determination ever to live so pure a life that she would not only
+  keep herself stainless but also help others to that sacred and
+  elevated plane.</p>
+
+  <p>Upon one of these occasions, when Bessie was in her twelfth
+  year, she said: "Mama, why don't we go to the meetings that are
+  being held at the schoolhouse on Sunday? The girls have asked me
+  several times, and I have told them I didn't know. They have a
+  minister from a distance, and he has taken the names of all who
+  want to join the church."</p>
+
+  <p>"That is a deep subject, my child," said Mrs. Worthington. "I
+  have often wished to explain to you my reasons for not attending
+  the public services held in our neighborhood by the different
+  denominations, but have feared you were still too young to
+  understand, for the matter seems hard even for some older persons
+  to comprehend. But I will tell you and trust the Lord to make it
+  plain.</p>
+
+  <p>"My parents taught me that it was my duty to attend religious
+  services at least once a week. This I did, and professed to be a
+  Christian until I was a young woman. I knew that I loved the Lord
+  and wanted to do right, but found that I could not always do
+  right in my own strength. I was daily doing things that
+  displeased the Lord. I became so troubled about my condition that
+  one day I went to the minister, and, telling him how I felt,
+  requested him to pray for me and to help me to get a real Bible
+  experience. In answer to my request, he only smiled and said,
+  'You are too particular. You might as well try to split a hair as
+  to try to live a holy life in this world.'</p>
+
+  <p>"As I returned home that day, I was very sad indeed. Oh, how
+  much I longed to be like Jesus, whom God had given me as an
+  example! I knew the Bible taught that if we expect to enter
+  heaven we must live a pure and holy life. I was determined to do
+  this&mdash;but how was I to do it? To whom could I go for help?
+  Most of the church-members were so worldly-minded they thought of
+  little else than a good time, and the few spiritual ones were
+  afraid to tell how they felt, for fear of their minister's
+  displeasure.</p>
+
+  <p>"At last I decided to seek from God and his Word what my soul
+  was longing for. As I sought, I began to see I had been deceived.
+  I found that as God looked upon mankind, he could see only two
+  classes of people&mdash;the righteous and sinners; and I saw that
+  I was a sinner.</p>
+
+  <p>"By reading the twelfth chapter of First Corinthians, I
+  learned that Christ's body is the church; that to become a member
+  of the church my name must be written in heaven; that every
+  Christian in the world is my brother or sister in Christ; the
+  Lamb's book of life is the only class-book in which our names
+  need to be recorded; and that our names are removed only because
+  of our turning again to sin. To me these thoughts were both new
+  and marvelous. I saw that every saved person in the different
+  denominations is a Christian and a member of God's true church,
+  but I knew that such persons were unable to worship God aright
+  for fear of displeasing their ministers or of breaking some of
+  the church-rules. And when I read in 2 Cor. 6:14 that we are not
+  to be unequally yoked together with unbelievers, I felt that I
+  must come out and stand alone. This I promised God to do at any
+  cost, and asked him to give me a Bible experience. He answered my
+  prayer; and I was so happy that I walked the floor for a long
+  time, clapping my hands and praising God.</p>
+
+  <p>"Because of the course I had taken many misunderstood me and
+  thought I was partially insane. Even your dear papa thinks so
+  still, but I dare not grieve God by going back.</p>
+
+  <p>"I have had some dreams that have greatly encouraged me. The
+  first was given while I was wondering why I could not find any
+  one who believed the whole Bible. I seemed to be standing in a
+  meeting-house; the service was ended and nearly every one had
+  gone home. I noticed a woman in great distress. Going to her, I
+  found that she had a very sore hand and that she was alone, with
+  no one to help her home through the darkness. With her consent, I
+  quickly picked her up in my arms and carried her safely through a
+  long, dark, narrow passage. As we passed along, I spoke words of
+  encouragement to her. Suddenly we came out into a large open
+  field carpeted with flowers, and there I laid her down, saying,
+  'How nicely we have gotten along alone.' Then I awoke.</p>
+
+  <p>"For some time I could not see the meaning of the dream. At
+  last I understood that the afflicted woman was I myself and that
+  the Savior wanted to carry me through the dark and dangerous way
+  of life alone.</p>
+
+  <p>"At another time I dreamed I was riding on a locomotive. Again
+  I was alone. The seat that I was sitting on was so small I had to
+  be very careful lest I be injured by the machinery around me. I
+  didn't think of danger while the train was in motion; but as it
+  drew up at a certain station, I began to consider my position.
+  The thought came, 'What will people think of me? They will
+  certainly say I am stealing a ride.' I remembered my ticket, and,
+  placing my hand upon it, I felt satisfied. At the next station I
+  could see inside of the passenger coaches. I had a good view of
+  the passengers in one of the coaches, and I recognized the
+  prominent members of the denomination I had lately left. As they
+  sat in their cushioned seats, carelessly talking to one another,
+  they all seemed happy and contented. My own condition then arose
+  before me, and I felt lonely indeed and thought, 'I will step
+  down from my little seat and enter the coach with the rest.' I
+  was just about to do this&mdash;even had my hand upon the door
+  knob&mdash;when I realized that I had left my dress in the little
+  seat, and again I awoke.</p>
+
+  <p>"The dream seemed very plain in every way. My ticket was my
+  experience and title to heaven, and the dress left up in the tiny
+  seat was the robe of Christ's righteousness. While alone and
+  contented, I was all right, but to return to the denomination
+  would mean to leave both robe and title behind.</p>
+
+  <p>"Still, God has given me some devoted Christian friends, who
+  are willing to live as the Bible directs, and with these I
+  worship as you know, dear, in our little weekly prayer-meetings.
+  I trust that some day your father will see and will understand me
+  better, and that we can worship God together. But I will be
+  faithful even though I should be forced to walk alone.</p>
+
+  <p>"Now, dear, I trust you can see that the true church is
+  Christ's body and that every soul is a member as long as he
+  continues to live a pure and holy life. Whether he is a member of
+  some sect or not, sin will cut him off; and if he continues to
+  profess as I did, he is a hypocrite in God's sight. 'Come out
+  from among them and be ye separate' is a command that every
+  Christian should obey."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    THE BEAUTIFUL SECRET.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>The mother's talks about her own Christian experience enabled
+  Bessie to understand the beautiful secret of salvation&mdash;an
+  influence that was to beautify her character and to mold her
+  whole subsequent career. Bessie's developing mind was able to
+  grasp firmly the golden thread of religious truth, which,
+  unraveling from the tangle of sectism, had guided her faithful
+  mother into the fulness of divine truth.</p>
+
+  <p>Thus it was&mdash;</p>
+
+  <div class="poem">
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>In the gentle hush of evening,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>When the sun sank in the west;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>When the little bird was nestling</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>In its quiet, sheltered nest;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>When the stars were brightly shining</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>From the lofty sky above,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Bessie learned the lovely secret</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Of her Savior's perfect love.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>In the twilight's deep'ning shadows,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>At her loving mother's feet,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Sat she often on a hassock,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Hearing words of counsel sweet.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Sacred season was this hour</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To the twain in waiting there,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Each the burden of the other</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Sought to know and ofttimes share.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>As the loving mother listened</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To the record of the day,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>To the questions of her daughter&mdash;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Spoken oft in childish way,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>She in tenderness instructed</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>With the wisdom of the Lord,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Gained by prayer and careful study</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Of his precious, holy Word.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>There the character was strengthened;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Bessie's heart was made to feel</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Greater love for her Creator,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>For his work a deeper zeal.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>And she saw God's plan for pardon,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To the feet of Jesus came,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>And was able, like her mother,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Full salvation then to claim.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Ah! fond mother, learn the secret</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>That will win thy children dear;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Draw them gently to thy bosom,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Ever seek their hearts to cheer.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>From thy home exclude all worry,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Fretful cares, and sad'ning gloom;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>But God's sunshine bid a welcome,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Let it shine in ev'ry room</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>As a spring within a desert,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thou mayst water each plant small;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>But the plant itself must blossom&mdash;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thou canst tend it, that is all.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Tiny human plants will flourish</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>In an atmosphere like this,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>And will yield good, fruitful blossoms</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>That will bring true happiness</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Children always thirst for knowledge,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>And ere long 'tis surely gained;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>If not from a faithful mother,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>'Tis from evil source obtained.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Blameless never is the mother</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Who will not the trouble take</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>To instruct her precious children,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Close companions of them make</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Like a florist wise and zealous,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Guard thou well each blossom fair,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Lest the perfume and the sweetness</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Vanish for the lack of care.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Choose thou then some place at even</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>When the daily toils are done,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Where life's many cares and blessings</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>May be numbered one by one.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>God will give thee wisdom, mother,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To supply thine ev'ry need,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>As thou givest wholesome knowledge,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>When the childish voices plead.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Their young minds, so pure, unfolding,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Will reveal the secret fair</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>That will prove how great the value</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Of a mother's love and pray'r.</i></p>
+    </div>
+  </div>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XIII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XIII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    BLESSING AND TRIAL.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Now that Bessie had learned the secret of a Christian life,
+  she longed to see others enjoying the love of God. She felt the
+  greatest burden for her father. Oh, if she could see him enjoying
+  salvation! She often poured out her desire in prayer, with
+  childlike trust and confidence. God heard her prayers.</p>
+
+  <p>One morning as she was passing the barn on her way to school,
+  she heard some strange sounds. Peering through a window, she
+  beheld a sight that made her wonder if she saw aright. There
+  stood her beloved father, great tears streaming from his eyes,
+  his countenance beaming with heavenly peace and joy, and praises
+  to God pouring from his lips. What did it mean? In a weak voice
+  she said, "Papa dear, what is the matter!"</p>
+
+  <p>Turning he exclaimed: "Oh, Bessie, God has saved me! I am so
+  happy! Run quick and tell your mother!" Bessie ran to the house
+  to tell the glad news, but her father was there nearly as soon,
+  saying, "Oh, I'm saved! You're right, wife. I know now that
+  you're right, and I see things just as you do! I'm so happy and
+  feel so different. Oh, help me to praise the dear Lord."</p>
+
+  <p>Let us leave them in their happiness and follow Bessie to
+  school. Her father's words rang as sweet music in her ears. How
+  good the dear Lord was to answer her in her father's behalf! She
+  felt that no good thing would be withheld from them that walk
+  uprightly. But Bessie was soon to meet a severe and unexpected
+  trial.</p>
+
+  <p>Her mother had made her a school-dress. Though neat and
+  pretty, it was of a material commonly used for men's shirts.
+  Bessie knew this, but thought nothing of it until some of her
+  schoolmates gathered round her at recess and said, "O girls,
+  Bessie has a new dress like her father's shirt." Another said,
+  "Perhaps it is his shirt." The remarks were certainly unkind, and
+  Bessie felt them keenly; but she laughed and said, "Yes; I know
+  it." Nothing more was said. But oh, that dress! How she disliked
+  to wear it! At times she could hardly start to school with it on;
+  but then she would think, "I know Mama thought it was pretty when
+  she got it for me; and I thought it was nice until the girls made
+  those remarks. I will try to like it for Mama's sake."</p>
+
+  <p>With such thoughts in her mind she returned home from school
+  one evening. When she reached the house, she saw that no one was
+  at home; but, knowing where the key was kept, she easily gained
+  admittance. Finding herself alone in the house, she thought: "Now
+  is the time to learn to like my dress, and I'm going to do it.
+  Mother shall not know how I have felt about it." She hastened
+  into the parlor and stood before a large mirror.</p>
+
+  <p>Now, Bessie knew that she did not have a pretty face, and she
+  had gained the victory over that; but she did want to feel that
+  her clothes looked well on her, and that was the battle she meant
+  to fight that evening. As she slowly turned from side to side
+  viewing herself intently, she liked the dress better and better.
+  At last she thought it very pretty and becoming, and she knelt
+  down and thanked God for giving it to her. As she changed it for
+  her work-dress, she wondered why she had allowed the children's
+  remarks to affect her so much and had not appreciated the dress
+  more. No more remarks were ever made about the dress, and Bessie
+  continued to admire it until it was worn out. No one but herself
+  and the Lord knew of the struggle through which she passed.</p>
+
+  <p>Through the trial concerning the dress, Bessie learned several
+  valuable lessons: first, the less notice one takes of unkindness,
+  the better; second, God's grace can keep in time of temptation;
+  third, one should not murmur because of persecution; and, last,
+  and best of all, God usually gives his children some great
+  blessing before a severe trial, and the close relationship
+  between the two makes them almost one in effect. She could now
+  say with real appreciation:</p>
+
+  <div class="poem">
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>A little trial often tries,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>But proves a blessing in disguise.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Just as the rough rock holds the gem,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>The trial holds my diadem</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+  </div>
+
+  <p>But a still greater trial was awaiting her. Bessie had a
+  thirst for knowledge. She was doing well in school and wanted to
+  do better. Instead of taking exercise during the daily
+  intermissions, she often spent them in hard study. Her system,
+  naturally frail, could not stand the strain. She contracted a
+  fever and for three months despaired of life. In the third month
+  dropsy of the chest set in; and, on account of smothering spells,
+  she had to be bolstered up in bed with pillows.</p>
+
+  <p>One day as Mrs. Worthington stood beside her child she felt
+  that God wanted to heal her. Kneeling beside the bed, she prayed,
+  "Dear Lord, heal my child, and grant that she may be spared to
+  work for thee." From that time Bessie began to improve. She had
+  no more smothering spells, and before long she was well and
+  strong.</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie found a blessing even in this trial. She saw that, had
+  she been able to push ahead as she had desired, she might have
+  lost sight of Jesus, and she now understood that her Savior cared
+  for her body as well as for her soul.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XIV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XIV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    THE SURPRISE PARTY.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As soon as Bessie was strong enough to go out, she was invited
+  to stay all night with a friend. She supposed she was to be the
+  only guest, but found that a surprise had been planned for her. A
+  goodly number of her friends and schoolmates were present.</p>
+
+  <p>The young folks spent a few hours very pleasantly in playing
+  games, and Bessie enjoyed that part of the evening very much. But
+  late in the evening some one proposed dancing, and the boys began
+  to choose their partners. A very strange feeling came over Bessie
+  when some one asked her to dance. She shook her head and said,
+  "No; I do not know how to dance." Several urged her to try, but
+  she said, "No; I would rather not."</p>
+
+  <p>She was the only one that did not dance. As she sat watching
+  the others, she wondered if it were right for boys and girls to
+  act as these were acting. She had never heard that it is wrong to
+  dance, but it did not look or seem right to her. She decided that
+  on reaching home she would ask her mother.</p>
+
+  <p>When Bessie got home the next morning, her mother asked,
+  "Well, dear, did you have a good time?"</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, yes," answered Bessie; "most of the time I did." Then she
+  told about the surprise party and about all that had happened,
+  and concluded by asking, "Mama, is it right to dance?"</p>
+
+  <p>"I have been thinking for a long time, Bessie, that I ought to
+  have a talk with you about dancing and tell you of some of the
+  evils to which it leads," answered her mother. "Dancing is an
+  amusement that many girls consider very attractive. When asked
+  why they think so, they hardly know what to answer, but generally
+  speak of the music and the graceful motions."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, Mama, the motions they made at the party last night were
+  anything but graceful. I know you wouldn't have allowed me to do
+  as they did, and I don't want to. It wasn't modest. I never want
+  to go to a dance again."</p>
+
+  <p>"I'm so glad, Bessie, you feel as you do about dancing; but,
+  dear, to those who learn, there is something very fascinating
+  about it. Some girls have said they would rather dance than eat;
+  and, with a great many, I believe it is true.</p>
+
+  <p>"Men of low character and of evil inclinations regard the
+  dance-hall as a favorable place to betray unsuspecting girls and
+  frequent it for that very purpose. Their victims are usually the
+  sweetest and most trusting girls. Their beauty attracts
+  undesirable attention, and their ignorance makes them an easy
+  prey. O Bessie, there are so many unprincipled men in the world
+  who love to win and betray the confidence of young innocent
+  girls.</p>
+
+  <p>"Philosophers tell us that 'perfect happiness comes only from
+  a pleasure attractive to our moral nature in its purity and
+  perfection. If we delight in pleasures of the other sort, our
+  moral natures are degraded.'</p>
+
+  <p>"You have noticed the immodest positions taken by those who
+  dance, and you feel a deep sense of shame for them. Should you
+  try to partake of their pleasure, your moral nature would be
+  degraded, and you would in time lose that sense of shame and be
+  as eager for the pleasure as any of the others. Thus yielding,
+  one step at a time, you would cease to look upon the dance as
+  immodest and would find real enjoyment in it, and perhaps would
+  be led into greater sin. It is in this way that many girls lose
+  their virtue. Then they are shunned by their old associates, who
+  are really but a step higher in morality. Forsaken by friends,
+  hopeless as to their future, deserted even by those who wrought
+  their downfall, these poor girls sink lower and lower, and lead
+  lives of shame and misery.</p>
+
+  <p>"No spiritual-minded person will take part in worldly
+  amusements, for he can not enjoy them. Christians who indulge in
+  dancing turn away from God and seek fellowship with the world.
+  Such are sure to lose the grace of God from their hearts."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    LEROY'S HEALING.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Bessie's little brother, Leroy, now past five years of age,
+  was far from being rugged. Though he had a full, round face and a
+  large head, his body was emaciated and did not develop properly.
+  He could go only a few steps without falling. He had fainting
+  spells, which gradually increased in frequency and duration.</p>
+
+  <p>Many times as Mrs. Worthington looked at her poor little boy,
+  she lifted her heart to God in earnest prayer to know his will
+  concerning the child. Many friends remarked that she would never
+  be able to bring him up; but she knew that, if for the best, God
+  could heal the child and give him right development.</p>
+
+  <p>At last his illness became very serious. One night his head
+  was burning with fever, while his body was cold and clammy. It
+  seemed but a question of time until he would pass away.</p>
+
+  <p>As Mrs. Worthington looked at her child, she remembered the
+  words, "Man's extremity is God's opportunity," and "The prayer of
+  faith shall save the sick." She wondered why God had brought them
+  to her mind. She began to ask herself: "Do I believe that God can
+  heal that child? If it is God's will to take him, can I submit?"
+  To the first question she answered, "Yes; God made him," and to
+  the second, "Thy will be done, O God." Then she breathed an
+  earnest prayer for his healing. The sweet assurance came that her
+  prayer was answered; that the child would grow well and strong.
+  She felt that she could lie down by his side and trust him in the
+  hands of the One who gave him.</p>
+
+  <p>She placed a wet cloth on his head, lay down by his side, and
+  knew no more until the next morning. Both slept soundly. When she
+  awoke, she saw that the child was breathing naturally and that
+  the fever was entirely gone. Then she fully realized that God had
+  healed him. With a grateful heart she thanked the Lord for his
+  tender love. It was indeed true that Leroy was well. About ten
+  o'clock his mother carried him to the lake and, having Bessie to
+  row the boat, gave him a pleasant boat-ride. The fever never
+  returned; his head stopped growing; and he became a strong,
+  healthy boy. The friends who had thought that he would surely die
+  said they could not understand the change that had taken place,
+  but Mrs. Worthington understood, and gave God all the praise.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XVI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XVI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    EXPLAINING THE DIVINE LIFE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>After Bessie's conversion Mrs. Worthington's talks to her were
+  often on the subject of the divine life within&mdash;how to care
+  for it and nourish it, so that it might not die nor become
+  blighted. She sometimes compared the young Christian's experience
+  to that of a new-born babe. "You know," said she, "the little one
+  must be carefully fed, and tenderly guarded against everything
+  harmful. Even a slight breeze blowing upon its little body, if
+  unprotected, might result in death. But as the child grows older
+  and stronger, it gradually becomes accustomed to the rude
+  elements about it and can, with comparative safety, be brought in
+  contact with them. The Christ life, new-born in the human heart,
+  is just as sensitive and needs the same tender care. Guard it
+  carefully, Bessie. It must be constantly nourished by prayer and
+  the Word of God. Seek to become established by the grace of
+  sanctification; then you will be better able to meet temptation
+  and persecution. Christ is your shepherd, and he wants to lead
+  you, his lamb, into green pastures and beside still waters.</p>
+
+  <p>"A person may profess to be a Christian, Bessie; but unless he
+  has a change of heart and affections, he is what the Bible terms
+  a wolf in sheep's clothing, and not one of the gentle lambs of
+  the Savior's fold. The profession does not amount to anything
+  when the heart is full of envy, hatred, jealousy, love of self,
+  and a drawing toward the world. A person with a profession only,
+  may appear for a time to be quite lamb-like; but sooner or later
+  the old nature will manifest itself, for it can not be hidden
+  long."</p>
+
+  <p>"I think, Mama," said Bessie, "I understand you&mdash;but you
+  spoke of the experience of sanctification; please tell me what
+  that means."</p>
+
+  <p>As briefly as possible, the mother explained that the second
+  cleansing of the heart takes away that evil nature which causes
+  man to want to disobey God.</p>
+
+  <p>Not long after this talk Bessie had an experience in school
+  that helped her to comprehend her mother's words. To be put back
+  in her studies was hard, but to have to give up her old teacher,
+  to whom she was strongly attached, was harder still. Her regret
+  on the latter account, however, was of short duration; for her
+  new teacher was even more lovable than the old one, and, best of
+  all, she was a Christian. She and Bessie not only got along well,
+  but became warm friends and enjoyed sweet fellowship in the
+  Spirit. One day, however, something happened that severely tested
+  their love, but, in the end, only deepened it.</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie's seatmate, a girl named Nora, about Bessie's own age,
+  was very mischievous. She did so many things deserving punishment
+  that the teacher was often perplexed to know what course to take
+  with her. Some one has said that "misery likes company." This was
+  certainly true of Nora. She knew that the teacher and Bessie were
+  good friends, and she longed to see Bessie get into trouble and
+  receive some punishment. Knowing that Bessie tried hard to obey
+  the rules of the school, Nora saw that she should have to lay
+  some cunning plan or she should not realize her wish. She began
+  to watch for an opportunity.</p>
+
+  <p>A streamlet ran past the schoolhouse. While Bessie and Nora
+  were playing near it one day, Bessie fell down in some mud. Just
+  as she fell, the school-bell rang and they had to hurry back to
+  their lessons. Fearing that some of the mud might have splattered
+  on her face, Bessie asked if her face was clean. Nora answered
+  quickly, "Oh yes; do hurry up." Nora felt that her chance had
+  come, and she made up her mind to get her seatmate into trouble,
+  if possible. Hurrying into the schoolroom, she whispered to one
+  of the boys, telling him to ask Bessie as she passed what was the
+  matter with her face, but to say nothing more. When Bessie came
+  down the aisle, she saw this boy looking at her with an amused
+  expression, and gave him close attention. As she passed him, he
+  whispered, "Bessie, what is the matter with your face?" and then
+  turned quickly away. Fully convinced that her face was dirty,
+  Bessie sat down very much ashamed. Nora knew how her seatmate
+  would feel and prepared herself for the question that she was
+  sure would be asked. As it was time for the writing-lesson, she
+  stuck her finger in inks of different colors; and, when Bessie
+  asked where her face was dirty, she quickly pointed out the
+  places, each time leaving a large spot of ink. Bessie, wholly
+  unconscious of the ink-spots on her face, thought what a dreadful
+  sight she must be, and asked permission of the teacher to wash.
+  When the teacher turned, she saw, not mud, but ugly ink-spots.
+  Supposing that Bessie had put them there, she shook her head. Her
+  surprise was great. She felt that she ought to do something about
+  it; but, being undecided, she turned away.</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie became much worried; for many eyes were turned upon
+  her, and some of the pupils were laughing. She wanted to hide,
+  but could not, and kept wondering why a little mud should cause
+  so much amusement. One girl, Anna, tried secretly to pass her a
+  wet handkerchief, but this Nora quickly caught from her and hid.
+  Poor Bessie was now ready to cry, and again asked permission to
+  wash her face; but her teacher answered, "No; you must go to
+  writing."</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie naturally had a high temper and was inclined to be
+  stubborn when she felt that she was being imposed upon; but she
+  had always held her temper in subjection, as she knew it to be
+  wrong to give way to anger. On this occasion, however, it seemed
+  impossible to control herself. When the teacher said, "Go to
+  writing," Bessie obeyed; but she was so angry that she hardly
+  knew what she was doing. Suddenly she thought, "If I daub a lot
+  of ink on my face, perhaps she will let me wash"; and she rubbed
+  some on with her finger. But alas! this did not work as she had
+  expected. The teacher saw her put it on and concluded that she
+  had put the other on also; so she said, "Bessie, you may go and
+  sit in my chair." As she said this, all the stubbornness in
+  Bessie's nature arose. She did not move; and when the teacher
+  said sternly, "Are you going to obey?" she shook her head and
+  caught hold of the seat. At this moment Nora whispered, "If that
+  were me, she'd make me go." The teacher heard the words and
+  looked first at Nora and then at Bessie. She hesitated for a
+  moment, then walked over to Bessie, took her by the shoulders and
+  jerked her from the seat, and then dragged her up to the chair
+  and set her down, telling her to study. "I have no book,"
+  retorted Bessie. The teacher ordered one brought, and, leaving
+  her, went to her other duties.</p>
+
+  <p>What a moment for Bessie! Too angry to study, she sat there
+  thinking of the dreadful scene she had created. Her heart burned
+  with shame. Oh! what could she do?</p>
+
+  <p>Anna, the girl who had tried to hand her the wet handkerchief,
+  had noticed all of Nora's actions and had determined to help
+  Bessie, if possible. On pretext of looking up a word in the
+  dictionary, Anna went forward, laid a wet rag where Bessie could
+  reach it, and returned to her seat. Bessie eagerly took the rag
+  and rubbed her face. She was surprised to see the different
+  colors of ink appear upon it. How they came to be there she did
+  not know; but she did not think about them long, for something
+  far worse began to trouble her. She knew that she had lost the
+  grace of God out of her heart. Oh, how wretched she felt! Would
+  God forgive her again? Yes; she knew he would; for she had read
+  that, "The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and
+  saveth such as be of a contrite spirit." This thought was a great
+  comfort to her. But, oh! what about her teacher? How could her
+  teacher ever love and respect her again? She would ask her pardon
+  as soon as possible, but would she forgive her?</p>
+
+  <p>It was not long until the teacher went to her desk for
+  something, but she took no notice of Bessie. Beaching out very
+  timidly, Bessie touched her and said, "O Miss Harrington, won't
+  you please forgive me?" But the teacher pretended not to hear
+  her, and turned quickly away. The next thought was, "What will
+  Mama think and say? Oh, if only she did not have to know about
+  it!" With these thoughts coursing through her mind, Bessie was
+  unable to study; and by the time school closed, she was in great
+  distress.</p>
+
+  <p>After closing the school, the teacher paid no attention to
+  Bessie for some time; but when she had finished her evening
+  duties and all the pupils except Nora, Anna, and Bessie had left
+  the building, she turned to Bessie, fell upon her knees, and
+  threw both arms around her. Bessie sobbed, "Oh, please forgive
+  me! please forgive me!" For some time the teacher made no reply,
+  and Nora muttered, "Catch me asking her forgiveness!" At last the
+  teacher, looking up through tearful eyes, said, "Bessie dear, it
+  is you who must forgive me. I should have been a better example
+  to you this afternoon. Let us pray." Then two sad hearts were
+  lifted to God in humble, earnest prayer that he would forgive
+  them for Jesus' sake. God heard their prayers, gave back the
+  sweet peace that they had lost out of their souls, and bound
+  their hearts together in Christian love and fellowship.</p>
+
+  <p>Nora went her way, provoked with her seatmate and angry
+  because the joke had not worked quite as she had expected. Anna,
+  slipping her arm through Bessie's walked home with her and told
+  her all that Nora had done. Bessie was surprised. She understood
+  why things had taken the course they had; but, knowing it was
+  really Satan, who had been trying to overthrow her own soul, she
+  did not censure her seatmate.</p>
+
+  <p>Her only thought now was of how sad her mother would feel.
+  Bessie decided that the occurrence was too dreadful to tell her
+  about and that she would keep it a secret. This was her decision
+  until she saw her mother coming down the walk to meet her. Having
+  always told her mother everything, Bessie did not know how it
+  would seem to keep a secret from her; so when they met, she
+  forgot all about her decision and began at once to tell her
+  mother all that had happened.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington listened very carefully to Bessie's story and
+  then said: "Bessie, I am so glad you have told me all this
+  yourself, and have held nothing back nor blamed Nora. God will
+  take care of the matter, and I believe that your lesson is a
+  lasting one. And now, my child; you can see your great need of
+  sanctification. Had that ugliness and stubbornness been taken out
+  of your heart, you would have been spared much suffering. I trust
+  that you will earnestly seek and obtain this grace."</p>
+
+  <p>It was well that Bessie told her mother everything, for Nora
+  did all in her power to circulate the story and to make it as bad
+  as possible. Nora's mother, thinking it best to tell Mrs.
+  Worthington about Bessie's misbehavior, made a special call at
+  the Worthington home for that purpose. Bessie's mother listened
+  to what her neighbor's story was and then smilingly replied,
+  "Yes, I know all about it; Bessie told me before she reached
+  home. I am so glad that I have the confidence of my child. We are
+  companions; I love her company, and she loves mine." These words
+  sounded strange to the visitor. She could not understand. "It
+  seems strange," said she, "that Bessie loves to stay at home and
+  to be with you so much. Doesn't she ever get lonesome? Nora is
+  restless and tired when she has to stay at home, and says I am
+  too old for her."</p>
+
+  <p>Ah! here was the secret of the difference between the two
+  girls. One mother had allowed her daughter to choose her own
+  company and had not inquired into their plays and talks; whereas
+  the other knew the secrets of her child's heart and could advise
+  and instruct her in any matter. Between Bessie and her mother
+  there was a tie of which Nora and her mother knew nothing. "Train
+  up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old he will
+  not depart from it." Prov. 22:6.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XVII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XVII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    TEMPTATIONS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>At Christmas time Bessie received the following letter from
+  one of her friends:</p>
+
+  <div class="blkquot">
+    <p>Dear Bessie:</p>
+
+    <p>I have long wondered what to send you as a Christmas gift,
+    and it seemed a hard problem to solve. I fear you will wonder
+    at what I am sending; but, knowing that you are nearly thirteen
+    years old and must be growing very fast, I have decided to send
+    you a corset. I hope you will like and appreciate it enough to
+    wear it.</p>
+
+    <p>Lovingly your friend,</p>
+
+    <p>Lizzie.</p>
+  </div>
+
+  <p>On receiving the package, Bessie looked at the corset and
+  said, "Mama, shall I wear it?"</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington looked anxiously at her daughter; for she
+  knew that Bessie would have strong temptations along this line,
+  as she did not have a pretty form, and was growing rapidly. She
+  had hoped, however, that the subject would not be mentioned for
+  some time. Silently she breathed a little prayer for wisdom to
+  answer the question, and then said:</p>
+
+  <p>"Bessie, God used great wisdom in forming your body. He knew
+  just what shape it would have to be in order to perform its
+  natural functions. Do you think it would be proper to try to
+  change it? Do you wonder why something snug around your waist
+  could be harmful? Listen, dear, and I will tell you. Let us take
+  the corset and examine it. It certainly looks very innocent and
+  pretty, but just see how stiff it is. These steel ribs and this
+  whalebone make it more like a piece of harness than anything else
+  I can think of. When worn about the waist, it produces pressure
+  upon the vital organs and thus deforms the body. These long
+  strings at the back are often drawn so tightly as to cause the
+  misplacement and derangement of those organs whose functions are
+  most necessary to health and happiness. As a consequence, many a
+  woman has to suffer long years of torture.</p>
+
+  <p>"Many women say they don't wear the corset tight, and think,
+  therefore, that no harm results; but, let one of them put a
+  snug-fitting bandage on any other part of the body, and she will
+  see how quickly the muscles of that part will weaken and decrease
+  in size. Should a young woman who has never worn a corset attempt
+  to wear one about her waist as loosely as they are ever worn, she
+  would, if honest with herself, cast it aside as an abominable
+  thing.</p>
+
+  <p>"The reason why Lizzie wants you to begin wearing a corset
+  while you're young is that, if you'll bind your waist before
+  you've reached your full growth, your waist will never attain the
+  size it would have attained under natural conditions. In other
+  words, you would be deformed."</p>
+
+  <p>"I don't think I shall ever wear it, Mama, if that's the
+  effect it has upon the body. If God takes such particular care of
+  us that he numbers our very hairs, he must be very much grieved
+  to see any one put a corset about her waist."</p>
+
+  <p>"I'm glad for your decision, my child, but you'll soon meet
+  greater temptations. Some mothers don't think it worth while to
+  warn their girls of the dangers that threaten them in regard to
+  love and marriage; but I want to see you, Bessie, fully prepared,
+  so that you may safely pass this dangerous period.</p>
+
+  <p>"Most girls at your age have some strange idea regarding love.
+  In the schoolroom, perhaps, a girl notices some particular boy
+  who has a winning way. At first she simply thinks he is nice; is
+  glad to see him promoted, receive honor, etc. Gradually her mind
+  becomes filled with queries concerning his opinion of her. She
+  dares not own that she loves to appear well in his eyes, but it
+  is true nevertheless. During his absence she misses him, and upon
+  his return her heart beats with emotion. If he pays her little
+  attentions, she dwells upon them until she becomes eager for
+  them. Her playmates notice a change in her, for she can no longer
+  hide her feelings. She blushes when mention is made of her
+  preference for him. The couple seek to be together as much as
+  possible, and are soon meeting together secretly. When reproved,
+  they may promise not to let the thing happen again, only to
+  repeat it in a short time. The secrecy of these meetings make
+  them more enjoyable, and their length and frequency are
+  unconsciously increased.</p>
+
+  <p>"Satan, who is never asleep upon such occasions, makes reproof
+  his companion to push them forward. Friendly warnings are
+  unheeded; and if force be used to prevent the meetings, the
+  couple may think of eloping. They may not have thought of
+  marriage until this time; but when the girl realizes what she has
+  done, she consents to the hasty marriage. Such marriages, Bessie,
+  seldom result happily.</p>
+
+  <p>"The place to stop was at the beginning. She should have
+  gained control of her wandering affections. Young girls who
+  lavish their love upon boys of their own age or older lose relish
+  for other things, and their minds become dwarfed and weakened by
+  being taxed with thoughts that are not fit for them to consider
+  at so early an age.</p>
+
+  <p>"It is all right to form in your mind an ideal for your
+  affections, if you don't have in mind some particular person; but
+  your common sense should be your guide. Two rowboats passing each
+  other upon the water are all right as long as they are far enough
+  apart; but let these boats drift or be guided too close together,
+  and there is great danger of a collision. Your affections are to
+  you what the rudder is to the boat, and reason is your pilot.
+  They will guide you aright if you will let them."</p>
+
+  <p>"Mama," said Bessie, "there's a girl in our school, only a few
+  months older than I, that says she is to be married in a short
+  time. The man she's to marry is nearly twice as old as she is,
+  too. We told her that she ought to wait until she wore long
+  dresses before she talked about getting married. Don't you think
+  that is dreadful?"</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes, dear, it is. No girl should ever be married while she is
+  so young."</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XVIII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    ANSWERS TO PRAYER.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>During the summer Bessie's cousin John and a boy friend came
+  to visit her. They spent many pleasant hours on the lake. One day
+  while they were about two miles from home, a fierce storm arose.
+  They noticed the sky growing dark and tried very hard to reach
+  home; but, when still some distance from the shore, they could
+  see that instead of making any headway they were drifting before
+  the wind.</p>
+
+  <p>It was a serious moment. As the great waves dashed up over
+  them, each adding to the amount of water in the boat, Bessie
+  looked first at her cousin toiling away at the oars, the great
+  drops of perspiration coursing down his face, then at their
+  friend nearly wild with terror, and then at the western sky.
+  "John," said she to her cousin, "I believe that's rain coming
+  toward us." Until then the boy, who was a little older than
+  Bessie, had been brave; but as he turned to look, his face
+  blanched with terror, and he said, "Bessie, if that is rain, it
+  will certainly sink our boat; for, see, it is nearly half full of
+  water now."</p>
+
+  <p>The situation was certainly critical, but Bessie felt that it
+  was not the time to despair. She remembered that in olden times
+  Jesus had calmed the sea. Believing that he could still do the
+  same, she prayed for help from heaven. Then, encouraging her
+  cousin to do his best, she, assisted by their friend, began to
+  bale out the water as rapidly as they could. In a few moments the
+  great drops of rain were dashing down upon them. Without
+  speaking, all kept at their work for what seemed to them an hour,
+  but which was really but a short time. Suddenly it ceased
+  raining; and, looking about them, they saw that the lake was
+  perfectly quiet&mdash;not a ripple could be seen. With trembling
+  voice Bessie said, "John, God must have sent the rain to quiet
+  the water, for I asked him to help us." It was a very wet but
+  thankful crowd that reached home that night.</p>
+
+  <p>In the spring that Bessie was fourteen years old, her father
+  sold the beautiful home where she had spent so many happy days,
+  and bought a tract of land in a dense wood farther up the lake.
+  On account of the dense forest, the place appeared very dismal.
+  As the purchaser of their old home wanted possession as soon as
+  possible, Mr. Worthington had time to build only a barn before
+  removing his family. In this building they lived during the first
+  summer. Though these circumstances were discouraging, the
+  Worthingtons tried hard to be brave. By fall a house was ready
+  for them.</p>
+
+  <p>Many good things were lacking in this new forest home; but God
+  knew this, and he put it into the hearts of friends and neighbors
+  to supply the family with fruit and vegetables and also chickens.
+  So generously were these supplied that there was no lack.</p>
+
+  <p>During the winter following much wood was cut, hauled, and
+  piled out along the roadside in front of the house; but still
+  there was standing timber nearly everywhere one might look, and
+  to the south and west it extended for many miles.</p>
+
+  <p>The next summer Bessie learned how dangerous an enemy a large
+  forest could become. There was so little rain during the hot
+  months that things became dry and brittle. One day she heard the
+  cry of "Fire! Fire!" Looking away to the southwest, she beheld a
+  sight that made her feel faint with fear. The woods were ablaze,
+  and the fire was coming directly toward her home.</p>
+
+  <p>Her father came to her, explained their danger, told her to
+  warn her mother and then to do all she could to put out any
+  sparks that might fall around the woodpiles, house, or barn. This
+  said, he hastened to join the men in their desperate battle with
+  the fire. When Bessie entered the house, she saw her mother
+  weeping over her little baby, who had been born during the winter
+  months and who had known nothing but sickness and suffering. When
+  Mrs. Worthington heard the news, she continued to weep, and said,
+  "Well, dear, do all you can to put out the sparks; for I think
+  your little brother is dying, and I can not leave him."</p>
+
+  <p>By much hard work, the fire was held in check until evening.
+  Bessie made her rounds with a pail of water and a dipper until
+  her eyes became so painful on account of the smoke and heat that
+  she was forced to lie down on the ground until they quit hurting.
+  As soon as possible, however, she returned to her task, informing
+  her mother frequently of the progress of the fire.</p>
+
+  <p>At last word came that nothing more could be done; that the
+  house could not be saved. Seeing that further effort was useless
+  and that each moment increased the danger of their own lives, the
+  men left off fighting the fire, in order to save themselves and
+  to help, if possible, the Worthington family. They soon reached
+  the house. The next question was, where to go. The lake seemed to
+  be the nearest place of safety. Confusion was everywhere, but
+  through it all Mrs. Worthington sat quietly holding her dying
+  baby.</p>
+
+  <p>"O Mama," said Bessie, "aren't you going with the rest?"</p>
+
+  <p>"No," answered her mother positively; "I shall remain right
+  here with my dying child. I can not move him now and add to his
+  suffering. I know that God can take care of me here as well as
+  anywhere else. Why, Bessie, where is your faith? God can yet send
+  rain and put out the fire."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh! but if God doesn't send rain, you will burn up; for the
+  fire is almost here," cried Bessie. "Do come as far from the
+  house as you can, won't you?"</p>
+
+  <p>"No, Bessie, I told you, no. I shall sit just where I am,"
+  answered Mrs. Worthington; and Bessie knew that it would be
+  useless to press the matter further.</p>
+
+  <p>With throbbing heart Bessie ran to her room, which was already
+  getting hot from the fire: she fell upon her knees by the window
+  where she could see the flames leaping from tree to tree, and
+  began to call mightily upon God. "O God!" she prayed, "do send
+  rain or change the wind." After repeating this prayer several
+  times, she noticed some large drops of water upon the window
+  pane. She knew what it meant: once before God had sent rain to
+  help her in time of danger. Hastening down stairs, she said,
+  "Mama, it's raining." "Thank God!" said Mrs. Worthington, "I knew
+  he wouldn't let baby and me burn up."</p>
+
+  <p>By that time the rain was pouring down; the wind had ceased;
+  and the danger was over. The rain did not put out the fire, but
+  so checked it that, by hard work, it could be kept under control
+  until it died out.</p>
+
+  <p>Little Clement lived only a short time after the fire; but
+  just before he died, he looked into his weeping mother's face and
+  smiled three times. As he had never smiled before, Mrs.
+  Worthington always thought that God took that way to encourage
+  her heart.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XIX"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XIX.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    LOST IN THE WOODS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As Leroy was too young to drive the cows home in the evening,
+  Bessie enjoyed many a long walk in search of them. One evening
+  she had some difficulty in finding them. It was one of those
+  evenings when everything is quiet and sound travels a long
+  distance. After listening carefully for the tinkling of the
+  cow-bells, Bessie was bewildered, for she could seemingly hear
+  them in every direction. At last, thinking she had located the
+  sound, she set out in that direction. When she had walked about
+  two miles, she stopped to listen again. The bells were still
+  tinkling, but they seemed to be just as far away. She knew,
+  though, that the cows sometimes went a long distance. She had
+  been following the road, but thinking the sound came from the
+  woods, she started off in that direction. She saw that the sun
+  was just going down behind the trees; that she was on an
+  unfamiliar path, and was getting farther and farther from home.
+  But she must get the cows, and on she went, stopping now and then
+  to locate the sound of the bells.</p>
+
+  <p>She suddenly found herself standing upon a point of land where
+  a deep, wide ravine extended on either side. The distance across
+  the ravine she could not see on account of the shadow and the
+  trees. What should she do? A few minutes previously she had
+  thought about its being late, but had hoped to find the cows and
+  to make them guide her home. This hope failing, she did not know
+  what to do. The bells were still tinkling ahead of her; but she
+  did not dare to try to cross the ravine in the darkness, now fast
+  gathering around her, and how could she return through those
+  dense woods! She thought of calling for help, but as quickly
+  realized how useless the effort would be, since there were no
+  houses near.</p>
+
+  <p>As she stood wondering what to do, these words from a psalm
+  she had committed to memory a short time before, came to her
+  mind: "If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the
+  night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from
+  thee; but the night shineth as the day; the darkness and the
+  light are both alike to thee." Two more precious promises came to
+  her mind: "I will guide thee with mine eye" and "He leadeth me
+  beside still waters." Oh, what encouragement those words were to
+  Bessie! Surely God would guide her home. With a thankful heart,
+  Bessie started to return. As she had passed through several
+  clearings in her search for the cows, she had no little
+  difficulty in finding her way; but the moon rose early and gave
+  her considerable light, and as she neared home, she began to
+  recognize some familiar objects.</p>
+
+  <p>But, in the meantime, how were her parents feeling? The cows
+  returned early and were milked. Mrs. Worthington wondered why
+  Bessie did not come with them, but thought she might have been
+  delayed and would come soon. She prepared supper; but when she
+  got it ready, Bessie was still absent.</p>
+
+  <p>"What can be keeping Bessie tonight?" Mrs. Worthington said
+  anxiously to her husband. "She should have come home an hour
+  ago."</p>
+
+  <p>"Oh, I suppose she has stopped somewhere to play," said Mr.
+  Worthington carelessly.</p>
+
+  <p>"No; I don't think so," replied his wife. "Bessie always tries
+  to be prompt, and I'm afraid something has happened. If she
+  doesn't come soon, you had better go to look for her."</p>
+
+  <p>"Well, wait until dark," said Mr. Worthington; "and, if she
+  isn't here then, I'll get some men and we'll search in different
+  directions. Did you notice which way she went!"</p>
+
+  <p>"No," answered his wife, "but I think she went east."</p>
+
+  <p>At dark Mr. Worthington started out with the searching party.
+  Mrs. Worthington tried not to worry; but when nine o'clock passed
+  and half-past nine came, she felt a great anxiety creeping into
+  her heart. Many times she offered an earnest prayer for Bessie's
+  protection. After putting Leroy to bed she stationed herself in
+  front of the house to watch.</p>
+
+  <p>About ten o'clock some one returned to say that he could find
+  no trace of Bessie.</p>
+
+  <p>With straining eyes, Mrs. Worthington looked in the direction
+  in which Bessie had gone, and at last thought that she could see
+  some one approaching. As the figure drew nearer, she could see
+  that it was her child, and with a glad cry ran to meet her. "O
+  Bessie," cried the mother, "what has happened to detain you? Your
+  father and a company of men are out searching the woods for you.
+  Dear child, where have you been?"</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie was very tired and hungry; but she related all that had
+  happened and said: "I'm sorry I couldn't go farther; for I
+  believe the cows were just a short distance beyond the point
+  where I turned back. But I did not dare to cross the swampy place
+  and go into the woods on the other side."</p>
+
+  <p>"Why, the cows have been home a long, long time, Bessie; and
+  that is what had made your delay seem so strange," said her
+  mother. "But were you not afraid, dear, when you found that you
+  were so far from home!"</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie explained how she had felt and how the Lord had
+  encouraged her and helped her to be brave.</p>
+
+  <p>"What time was that?" asked her mother; and when she learned,
+  she said, "Bessie, that was when I was so earnestly praying for
+  you. Surely our God is a mighty God and one who is ever
+  faithful."</p>
+
+  <p>When the searching party returned, they were all glad to know
+  that Bessie was safe at home.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XX"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XX.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    NOVEL-READING.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>As Bessie approached her sixteenth year, Mrs. Worthington
+  became very anxious about her. The mother thought that she could
+  notice a change in her daughter's actions and disposition.
+  Instead of being confiding and happy, she seemed listless,
+  forgetful, and nervous. At first the mother could not understand
+  this change; but by close observation she found that her daughter
+  was indulging in light reading.</p>
+
+  <p>Some magazines and weekly papers containing continued
+  love-stories had found their way into the Worthington home. At
+  first they were not attractive to Bessie. She would merely glance
+  through the pages; but she gradually came to overlook the good,
+  substantial reading and to enjoy the part that stimulated the
+  romantic and imaginative part of her nature. The effect upon her
+  mental and moral powers was much the same as that produced upon
+  the digestive organs by rich and stimulating foods. Her mind was
+  thus weakened and robbed of its relish for wholesome reading. She
+  was ever looking forward for something to excite or satisfy her
+  abnormal desire for the romantic or the dreadful.</p>
+
+  <p>As soon as Mrs. Worthington realized her daughter's danger,
+  she sought an opportunity to instruct her on the dangers of
+  novel-reading. "Some effects of novel-reading," said she, "are
+  worse even than those produced by dancing. Many novels are
+  hurtful because of the many false ideas interwoven in the
+  stories. Some novels attract the pure-minded by their morality;
+  but it is unsafe to read them, for the reason I have already
+  given you, and because, as with any bad habit, the exciting
+  influences must be constantly increased. In this way some persons
+  are deceived and drawn into many of Satan's snares.</p>
+
+  <p>"In most novels there is much that is good and true; but the
+  immoral, the worldly, and the untrue are so interwoven with it
+  that the reader unconsciously finds himself taking pleasure in
+  thoughts which, before he began reading novels, would have been
+  disgusting. In this way the reader's sense of right is lowered
+  and an appetite created&mdash;an appetite that can not be
+  satisfied; the more it is fed, the more depraved and exacting it
+  becomes. Gradually the desire for the romantic increases until
+  the novel-reader longs to have a romance of her own. Her sense of
+  duty is so blunted and her better judgment so blinded that she
+  often agrees to a secret marriage with some one who is wholly
+  unfit to be her life companion. It is in this way that many a
+  girl has been deceived and led into sin. Many times, too, habits
+  have been formed, from which nothing but the grace of God could
+  deliver. In looking back over a wasted life, many a person can
+  see that his or her downfall had its origin in the first
+  novel.</p>
+
+  <p>"My dear child, there are many good books that you will find
+  both helpful and interesting, but the Bible should be the pattern
+  of your life. Let it be the principal food for your mind and
+  soul. Your time all belongs to God, and you should waste none of
+  it in reading unwholesome literature."</p>
+
+  <p>As Mrs. Worthington finished speaking, she was glad to see a
+  changed look in Bessie's face. She knew that God was talking to
+  her daughter; and as she arose to go, she said: "Bessie, do not
+  forget from whom you may expect strength. I am praying that God
+  will entirely take away the unnatural appetite which you have
+  been fostering."</p>
+
+  <p>It was not long until Bessie rejoiced in full deliverance from
+  her taste for novel-reading, and her interest in her mother's
+  talks returned. As they read the Bible together and praised God
+  for the precious truths it contained, cherishing them within
+  their hearts as priceless treasures, Bessie's understanding
+  seemed to open, and she was able to comprehend many of the deep
+  truths of God's Word. The reading of God's Word gave her such
+  unbounding joy, such complete spiritual happiness, that nothing
+  could compare with it. Its truths, so simple and yet so grand,
+  were at once a guide and a reproof to keep her feet from straying
+  from the narrow way.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    GLAD TIDINGS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>In a small house about two miles from Bessie's home lived a
+  very old lady. She loved the Lord and enjoyed telling of his
+  goodness and of his dealings with her. Bessie, who was now about
+  sixteen years of age, enjoyed these talks very much.</p>
+
+  <p>One day while Bessie and her mother were visiting this aged
+  saint, she brought forth a much-worn paper and handed it to Mrs.
+  Worthington, saying, "My daughter sent me this paper. You may
+  take it home, if you like," she continued; "but I must ask you to
+  return it, as my daughter wants it again." As Mrs. Worthington
+  took the paper, Bessie saw at the top of the page, in large
+  letters, "The Gospel Trumpet." After reading a few minutes Mrs.
+  Worthington exclaimed: "This paper is certainly the work of a
+  people who understand the plan of salvation. Things are fully
+  explained here that have been plain to me for years&mdash;things
+  that I dared not mention publicly lest I be thought
+  fanatical."</p>
+
+  <p>On their return home Mrs. Worthington said: "It must have been
+  in answer to prayer that Sister Moore let me see that paper. I
+  have prayed for many years that God would help me to find a
+  people who were not afraid to preach his whole Word. I believe we
+  have found them. Who knows but this is God's way of starting a
+  series of meetings here. Oh, the wonderful God we serve! I shall
+  subscribe for the paper at once and also send my poem on sectism
+  to see if they will publish it." The subscription was sent, and
+  the poem soon appeared in the paper.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington was truly thankful to find that God had
+  others in the world who were willing to teach the whole Bible
+  without construing any part to suit their own ideas.</p>
+
+  <p>It was not long until a testimony appeared from a minister
+  living a few miles away; and, agreeably with Mrs. Worthington's
+  request, a series of meetings was started in the
+  neighborhood.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    THE MEETINGS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>The news of the good meetings spread rapidly, and the
+  attendance constantly increased. The gospel as preached was a new
+  message to the people, and yet it was the very same that Jesus
+  and his disciples taught. Every point of doctrine presented had a
+  "thus saith the Lord" to confirm it.</p>
+
+  <p>Many saw that the Bible had been misunderstood and had been
+  misconstrued by mankind to prove minor points, while the deep and
+  vital truths had been so covered over with prejudice and unbelief
+  that the majority of the people were blind to the true meaning of
+  the Word; and that, in their confusion, each had gone to the
+  denomination that seemed most nearly to correspond to his clouded
+  views. It was also clearly shown that there is no way to heaven
+  except the straight and narrow way that Jesus taught, and that
+  God's Word is the only true measure of a Christian
+  experience.</p>
+
+  <p>Mrs. Worthington felt now that her cup of joy was full since
+  she could hear the way of salvation and the true church explained
+  from the pulpit just as God had revealed them to her. She was
+  also glad that Bessie, who was now old enough to understand deep
+  spiritual truths for herself, was in perfect harmony and
+  fellowship with her.</p>
+
+  <p>About forty souls were saved in the meetings; some gained the
+  experience of sanctification; and the Spirit of the Lord worked
+  mightily upon the hearts of many others.</p>
+
+  <p>Oh, the deep and wonderful love of God! Oh, the richness and
+  fulness of his grace! How glorious Bessie now found her walk with
+  God! How precious to commune with him and feel that she was
+  growing deeper into his love! Truly it was a taste of heaven!</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXIII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    BESSIE SEES HER DUTY.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Among those converted in the meetings was a girl a little
+  younger than Bessie. Her name was Cora. Being an orphan and
+  living in the home of an infidel uncle, where she had no one to
+  understand or sympathize with her views, she often sought Bessie
+  for counsel and advice. The uncle did not oppose his niece, but
+  others in his family did.</p>
+
+  <p>As time went on, the two girls became anxious to be doing
+  something for the Lord. While they were pondering over the
+  matter, a company of ministers came to the place to hold another
+  series of meetings. From them the girls learned that <i>The
+  Gospel Trumpet</i> was published by consecrated labor, that the
+  workers received no stated salary, but that they trusted the Lord
+  for their food and clothing.</p>
+
+  <p>It seemed a strange story to the girls, but Cora felt that she
+  should like to go and help in the work. Though her uncle was not
+  pleased with her plan, yet finally, after he had investigated and
+  had found the place respectable, he gave his consent. It was
+  several months, however, before she expected to leave. Toward the
+  close of this time Bessie began to feel some anxiety for her
+  friend, and one day said to her, "Cora, do you really want to go
+  to <i>The Gospel Trumpet</i> office to work? Now, if you don't
+  want to go, God will not be pleased with your service." "Bessie,
+  I have lost all desire to go," Cora answered. "It seems to me
+  that God is calling you instead of me. You could be a much
+  greater help than I, because you have known and understood this
+  truth all your life."</p>
+
+  <p>If Bessie had received a severe blow, it could not have hurt
+  her more. Her precious mother! How could she leave her! Many of
+  her cherished hopes for the future arose before me. Her plan, to
+  do all she could for her mother in her declining years, came up
+  before her; and as she thought of it, she became very sad. When
+  the two girls parted at the door, Bessie's heart was very heavy;
+  and when she was at last alone, she wept bitterly. She remembered
+  that she had consecrated to do anything the Lord might require of
+  her, but she did not see how she could do this. For many days
+  Bessie bore this heavy burden; and, not being strong, she began
+  to fail in health. From appearances, she had a malignant form of
+  quick consumption. The course of the disease was rapid, and in a
+  few weeks she was not only confined to her bed, but seemingly
+  very near death. Mr. Worthington desired to consult a physician,
+  but reluctantly heeded to Bessie's earnest entreaties to let her
+  trust the Lord. She said to her father, "I know that God would
+  heal me, if for the best; and, if not, I would rather die." And
+  she added mentally, "I would rather die than to leave home."</p>
+
+  <p>Bessie at last became so low that she could not be left alone
+  night or day. As her mother sat beside her one day, holding her
+  hand, she said: "I believe, dear, that God wants to heal you and
+  use you for himself. I feel like asking our elder, Sister Smith,
+  to come and anoint you with oil according to Jas. 5:14, 15. I am
+  sure God will heal you."</p>
+
+  <p>Sister Smith was brought as soon as possible; but, to Mrs.
+  Worthington's surprise, she did not offer to anoint Bessie until
+  the next day. She said: "I can not understand this case. There is
+  something here that seems very strange. Bessie appears to be
+  perfectly resigned to die, but she only answers yes or no to my
+  questions. I shall talk to her again." Returning to the bedside,
+  she said, "My dear, if God heals you, are you willing to leave
+  your father, mother, and home to preach the gospel"&mdash;but she
+  got no farther. Bessie, with all the emphasis she could command
+  in her weak state, interrupted, "No; I will never preach."</p>
+
+  <p>"Ah! there is the point in your consecration that you have not
+  reached," replied Sister Smith. "You must be willing to do
+  anything that will bring the most honor to God's name, and to
+  work where he can get the most glory out of your service. It may
+  be the Lord will never require you to preach; but he wants the
+  willingness on your part, just as much as if he wanted to make a
+  minister of you."</p>
+
+  <p>It was some time before Bessie could answer; but when she did,
+  it was to say that she would do anything, only that she must know
+  that it was God who required it.</p>
+
+  <p>"God will make you to know that," said Sister Smith; "and now
+  I feel that everything is out of the way, and we can ask God to
+  heal you."</p>
+
+  <p>As she applied the oil and called earnestly upon God, there
+  seemed to be a heavenly atmosphere filling the room. Bessie felt
+  a soothing sensation passing through her body; and when the
+  prayer was ended, she felt perfectly well, though exceedingly
+  weak. Her strength soon returned, however, and it was not long
+  until the Lord told her plainly that he wanted her at <i>The
+  Gospel Trumpet</i> office. She remembered her consecration and
+  felt willing in her heart to obey; but she shrank from telling
+  her parents. For two weeks she endured severe mental suffering.
+  She tried to gain sufficient courage to speak to her mother about
+  the call, but her tongue refused to form the words. One day while
+  she and her mother were in the cosy sitting-room, Mrs.
+  Worthington said, "Bessie, I believe that God wants you at <i>The
+  Gospel Trumpet</i> office and that he has used Cora's plan and
+  your sickness to show you your duty." Looking up through eyes
+  filled with tears, Bessie related all that God had revealed to
+  her. A great calm then came into her soul.</p>
+
+  <p>But the test was not entirely over. Mr. Worthington must be
+  told, and&mdash;would he be willing? Embracing the first
+  opportunity, Bessie told him her plans and begged his approval
+  upon them; but his reply nearly crushed her.</p>
+
+  <p>"Bessie," said her father, "if you must leave us, you may go;
+  but I have one thing to say and I mean it. If you go, you can
+  never return; for your going is heartless indeed. I can not see
+  why you should choose to go from your comfortable home and those
+  who love you so dearly, and leave your mother, who so much needs
+  your help."</p>
+
+  <p>"Father, Father!" exclaimed Bessie, "Oh, don't talk that way!
+  You know how much I love you all. You know I never wanted to
+  leave home before; and if you won't let me return, what shall I
+  do?"</p>
+
+  <p>As she stood there before her father almost broken-hearted, a
+  sweet voice whispered, "I will be with thee; be not afraid." The
+  words sounded like music in her soul and reminded her of her
+  recent decision to obey the Lord at any cost; and she said
+  quietly:</p>
+
+  <p>"Well, Father, if you refuse to let me return home, it will
+  have to be that way; but I must obey the Lord, and he has called
+  me into his service"</p>
+
+  <p>"Very well," he answered, "but remember my words," and he left
+  her.</p>
+
+  <p>Seeking her mother, Bessie told her of the interview and of
+  her father's refusal to allow her to return home. For a moment
+  they stood looking at one another; and then, with great tears
+  filling her eyes, her mother said:</p>
+
+  <p>"Remember the words of Jesus, 'There is no man that hath left
+  house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the
+  kingdom of God's sake, who shall not receive manifold more in
+  this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting.'
+  Dear, child, I know your dutiful nature, and how you long to obey
+  your parents; but the Bible says to obey them in the Lord. When
+  you have to choose whom you will serve, God or your parents, you
+  must choose the Lord."</p>
+
+  <p>"I will obey God," said Bessie quietly; and she began at once
+  to prepare to leave home.</p>
+
+  <p>When all was ready and the morning of departure had come, Mr.
+  Worthington went out to prepare to take his daughter to the
+  train. He had been very silent all the morning, but Bessie's
+  heart was so full that she had taken little notice of his
+  behavior. Oh, how she longed for his consent for her to return!
+  Her mother gave her every encouraging word possible. At last they
+  looked out and saw that the horse was ready. As Bessie picked up
+  her last bundle, the door opened, and her father, stepping in
+  quickly, caught her in his arms. "O my child," he sobbed, "will
+  you forgive me and come back as soon as the Lord will let you? I
+  didn't mean what I said; but it is so hard to give you up. If you
+  need anything, write to me at once and let me know about it,
+  won't you?" and he tenderly kissed her. Bessie's heart was filled
+  with joy, and she said that he could expect her home just as soon
+  as the Lord would let her come.</p>
+
+  <p>"Read 1 Cor. 10:13 and Jas. 1:12 just as soon as you have
+  time, dear," whispered Mrs. Worthington in her daughter's ear as
+  she kissed her again before she jumped into the buggy beside her
+  father. Then they drove away from the home and the mother that
+  were so dear to Bessie's heart.</p>
+
+  <p>Very few words were spoken on the way to town, and after a
+  long ride Bessie found herself on the train. It all seemed like a
+  terrible dream; but there was a sweet peace and quietness in her
+  soul, and her father's loving words rang again and again in her
+  ears.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXIV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    REVERIE.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>In the days that followed Bessie's arrival at the
+  <i>Trumpet</i> office, she found many ways in which she could
+  help spread the gospel. She found, too, that she could preach in
+  a way that was not at all distasteful to her; for she could set
+  up many lines of type to be used in printing the gospel message
+  in the <i>Trumpet</i>, which was carrying light and truth into
+  many homes and preaching to hungry souls. But oh, how often she
+  thought of the dear ones at home and of how they were missing
+  her!</p>
+
+  <p>One evening, when she sought her room and sat down beside the
+  window, as she had so often done at home, she began to review her
+  life. As the soft shadows gathered slowly about her, she seemed
+  to be at home again close beside her mother's knee, listening to
+  her tender, loving words of sympathy and advice. Bessie could now
+  see what they had been worth to her. They not only had prepared
+  her for a common sphere in life, but had given her a thorough
+  understanding of God's great plan of salvation. As she recalled
+  her mother's prayers and talks, she realized that, through them,
+  she had many times escaped what other girls had ignorantly
+  blundered into, and had been spared a great many of the bitter
+  sorrows that come into the lives of girls not taught at their
+  mother's knee. In her thankfulness, she offered a fervent prayer
+  to her heavenly Father that many more earnest, noble, and
+  prayerful mothers might be found to guide their children through
+  the critical period of childhood.</p>
+
+  <p>After three months Bessie returned home for a short visit with
+  her parents. Upon her arrival she not only found a loving and
+  tender welcome, but also learned that both her parents had
+  accepted her call as from God. After a happy visit of two weeks
+  she returned to her work. With the blessing of God upon her
+  labors, we shall here bid her good-by.</p>
+
+  <p>In conclusion, we wish to say that what she became was
+  principally in answer to her faithful mother's prayers. Had she
+  been left&mdash;as many girls are&mdash;without a mother's tender
+  love and confidence, mingled with many earnest prayers, she would
+  have fallen into temptations that she never knew. She had fully
+  proved the worth of a praying mother.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXV"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXV.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    A PLEA TO MOTHERS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>Home as God intended it is built upon the corner-stone of
+  virtue and prayer. It makes no difference how beautiful the house
+  nor how grand its contents, if the mother is a woman who does not
+  care for God or virtue, the corner-stone of that home is lacking.
+  Such a home can not stand when trial and temptation enter.</p>
+
+  <p>A stream never rises above its source, nor a home above the
+  ideals of its founders. No matter how humble the home, do not
+  belittle its possibilities. Anything so sacred as home can
+  command heaven's choicest and best blessings. The humblest cabin
+  may contain that element which makes home the shrine of happiness
+  and the temple of peace, and will cause it to send forth saints
+  and heroes.</p>
+
+  <p>Oh that parents, especially mothers, could realize their
+  influence in the home, their power to direct the young minds
+  around them into the proper channel! Let us so educate and train
+  the children that they will be able to get the greatest good from
+  their natural endowment and that they may use it in such a manner
+  as will bring the most glory to God. So train them and so live
+  before them in the home that in after-years they will say with
+  pleasure: "This precept was always taught me by my parents.
+  Father and Mother's holy example has been a priceless birthright
+  to me."</p>
+
+  <p>This is true parenthood. It should be the ideal in every home.
+  By this I mean parents who realize their responsibility and have
+  their children's best interest at heart; parents who will
+  sacrifice any pleasure of their own for the benefit and happiness
+  of their little ones; parents who will not only bid their
+  children a hearty welcome into the world, but will care for their
+  future from that moment, and who have the love and respect of
+  their entire household.</p>
+
+  <p>You may say that parents like these are few and hard to find.
+  True, but it is equally so that, with proper knowledge and
+  understanding, many would approach this standard. Perhaps some
+  have allowed years to slip carelessly by and their darlings to
+  pass seemingly beyond their control. To such I would say, It is
+  never too late to pray.</p>
+
+  <p>Observe the wayward boy whose chief inheritance is a wild,
+  wilful nature. He is nearing his fourteenth birthday. Having been
+  allowed to have his own way while small, he has cultivated an
+  ungovernable desire to do as he pleases. Let the mother of that
+  boy cease her old habit of saying, "I don't know what will become
+  of that boy! I don't understand how he can treat me so rudely.
+  I've done all I can, and he just grows worse," and take a more
+  rational method. Have you gone to that boy and told him the
+  sweet, simple story of Jesus and why he came from his beautiful
+  home; that a part of his mission was to teach you how to make
+  your home after the pattern of his heavenly home; that his heart
+  is touched with compassion when he beholds any one in trouble;
+  that he is grieved because you have made a mistake; but that you
+  are sorry and are decided to do your duty? Have you told the boy
+  all that? Have you knelt beside his bed at night with your
+  tear-dimmed eyes pressed upon his hand, and told him the great
+  dangers that are before him, even surrounding him, and informed
+  him how to avoid them? Have you told him that he is at the most
+  critical time in his life, that a mistake now will mean a life of
+  suffering for both him and you, and that he can with you begin
+  over and remove some of his past mistakes? Have you talked thus
+  to your boy? If not, why not? It is your privilege as well as
+  your duty.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXVI"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXVI.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    PARENTAL DUTY.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>The first duty of father and mother to their child is to see
+  that they are a unit on family government. Second, they must
+  study themselves and their failures, trying to make the weak
+  places strong. Third, study the disposition of the child, gain an
+  understanding of its inner life, and find out what pleases and
+  displeases it; and, while cultivating the good, hold in check the
+  bad. A mother should understand her children better than any one
+  else. If she is a thoughtful mother, she knows not only the
+  surroundings of her children, but many of the impressions that
+  she has stamped upon their undeveloped minds.</p>
+
+  <p>Children are not putty that can be moulded into any form to
+  suit our fancy, but there is a method by which we can fashion
+  their young lives. Much patience, devotion to the child, and
+  fervent prayer will be needful to accomplish anything worth
+  while.</p>
+
+  <p>Every parent should see that their attitude toward their
+  children is what it should be. Consider their feelings and show
+  them respect, remembering that they have rights upon which you
+  must not intrude; but never loosen the reigns of home government.
+  Make any rules that you think practicable and necessary; explain
+  each rule carefully to your child, giving your reason for making
+  it, and then demand obedience. Never, unless for some special
+  reason, ignore any good rule. Should your child happen to break
+  one of these rules, do not punish without first finding out the
+  cause. He may not have understood your meaning, or he may have
+  forgotten. Take him quietly aside; and, after finding out why he
+  has disobeyed, gently tell him again your reasons for making the
+  rules and the necessity of his obedience. You might have to do
+  this several times, but do not excuse him too long. When it is
+  necessary to punish, ask for wisdom from above, and then punish
+  in a way that he will understand you and remember the punishment.
+  When you make a statement, stand by it, if possible, unless you
+  see error in it. If such be the case, confess your fault. If your
+  child does not show you due respect and obedience, there is a
+  cause for it, and it is your duty to find out what that cause
+  is.</p>
+
+  <p>All children have to contend with bad qualities that have been
+  inherited. Do not flatter yourself that because the child is
+  yours it will escape temptation; for all must be tempted, if they
+  would be strong. Teach your children, according to their ability
+  to comprehend, all that they should know to be able to shun evil.
+  Do not think that because your child has inherited some moral
+  weakness, you are helpless to teach him to overcome it. You can
+  explain to him his danger and tell him what yielding to the
+  temptations that come to him because of this weakness will lead
+  to. Point out the effect of this sin upon the one from whom it
+  was inherited. Tell the child that the only chance to overcome
+  this inherited tendency will be by constantly avoiding those
+  things that will lead to temptation. You may find the task
+  difficult and you may sometimes feel disheartened, but you must
+  put that wayward child of yours right, if possible, or God will
+  hold you accountable. Perhaps the inherited sin may lie at your
+  own door. If it does, you will understand better how to help him
+  from under its power.</p>
+
+  <p>In the public school, on the street, and in his various
+  associations, your child will be exposed to the evil of hearing
+  impure language from vile lips; and if he be not warned, who can
+  blame him for listening? Your home teaching must overbalance all
+  that he hears outside.</p>
+
+  <p>Should some question concerning the mysteries of his own body
+  or of his own origin be aroused in his mind by impure stories or
+  by any other cause, you must at once arise to meet the difficulty
+  before harm is done that will be very difficult to overcome. But
+  some mother will say: "I do not know what answer to make my child
+  when he asks questions of such a delicate nature. Would it not be
+  best to leave his mind free from these ideas until he is older?"
+  Doubtless it would, if the child would be contented to wait; but
+  when he has learned enough to ask the question, he is able to
+  tell whether you speak the truth when you say you do not know,
+  and he will not be satisfied by the flimsy pretest, "Oh, run away
+  and don't bother me; I'm too busy."</p>
+
+  <p>Above all else, keep the confidence of your child, so that he
+  will come to you with every trouble of life. Confidence of
+  children in their parents is a gift from God. All children have
+  it at first. See the tottering baby cling to its mother for
+  support; watch it run to her when it is frightened. Can it not
+  have the same confidence when it is older? I answer from
+  experience that it can and should. Truth inspires trust in your
+  child. If you do not think it best to answer all his questions
+  fully at the time when he asks them, tell him at least enough to
+  satisfy his curiosity, and promise him that, if this remains a
+  secret between you and him, he may come to you whenever he wants
+  more information. Do not be afraid of having secrets with your
+  child. The matter may be trifling, but the fact that he is
+  helping you to keep secrets will teach him to value his word and
+  will increase his confidence in you. On the other hand, if you
+  tell him an untruth, do not think that he will come to you again.
+  No, he will doubtless go to some friend who he thinks will tell
+  him, and thus get his young mind tainted with impure thoughts.
+  And little better in results than telling an untruth is putting
+  the child off till some future time. These questions must be met
+  when they arrive.</p>
+
+  <p>You may say, "I don't know how much to tell at any one time."
+  Wisdom is necessary here. No more should be told than will
+  satisfy the present curiosity of the child. A few questions on
+  your part will readily discover what information he has gained
+  and how much he wishes to know.</p>
+
+  <p>A boy of scarce six summers once came to his mother with a
+  question of life. The mother was shocked; but, offering an
+  earnest prayer for wisdom, she questioned the child and found
+  that he had heard remarks made by older boys. As his mind was
+  developed enough to comprehend part of their conversation, his
+  curiosity was aroused. Having perfect confidence in his mother,
+  he had sought her for an explanation of the points that perplexed
+  him. As simply as possible, that mother gave the information,
+  ending with the words, "Now, darling, this is to be a perfect
+  secret between us; and when you are old enough, I will tell you
+  more." Years passed by until the boy was in his eleventh year;
+  then he once more went to his mother for information. "Mama," he
+  began, "do you remember the time you told me a secret?" She
+  answered that she did, and he continued: "Well, I have kept that
+  secret. I have never mentioned it to any one. And do you remember
+  that you said some time you would tell me more?" When she
+  answered, "Yes," he said quickly, "Don't you think I'm old enough
+  now?" In answer, the mother put her arms about him and said, "My
+  son, you shall hear all you wish to hear. What is it, dear?" Then
+  as each question came, she gave him a satisfactory answer, and
+  ended by saying, "Whenever you want to know more, come to me, and
+  I will tell you." That boy continued to go to his mother; and
+  when he entered the most trying period of his life, her advice
+  kept him from the dangers into which so many fall. In hours of
+  trial she was able to point him to the Savior. Never neglect the
+  duty of warning your child of danger.</p>
+
+  <p>Teaching of this kind will endear you to your children long
+  after you are resting in the grave. They will recount, "My mother
+  told me this. My father taught me that. They must have understood
+  God's plan of salvation, or they would never have known how to
+  tell me these things." But the task will require your highest
+  talents. Sympathy and love, constant watchfulness, and earnest
+  prayer will be the most needful. Since the child does not know
+  himself, you must learn to know him. You must search for the
+  secret springs that govern his actions and for the master key
+  that will unlock his heart.</p>
+
+  <p>One dear young woman, relating her experience to me, said: "My
+  mother died when I was only six years old; but I know she must
+  have been a Christian, because some friends who knew her told me
+  of her devoted life and of earnest pleadings for her children
+  when she saw that she must leave them. All that I can remember
+  about her was seeing her bowing in prayer or talking to us
+  children. There are desires in my nature that I know must have
+  been planted within me in answer to her prayer. After her death I
+  was cast out upon the world. I went to live with a very ungodly
+  family, but that sense of right and wrong within me made me shun
+  and despise their evil ways. I loved to read my Bible. From it I
+  learned that, if I would gain heaven, I must forsake sin and live
+  a pure life. To live such a life was a pleasure until I found
+  that the denomination whose meetings I attended would not allow
+  me to say much about a holy life, because their creed did not
+  teach it. Then I promised the Lord that I would be a Christian if
+  I had to be one all by myself. This was not necessary, for I
+  found many true Christians who believed all that the Bible
+  teaches."</p>
+
+  <p>That mother's prayers had fashioned and governed the life of
+  her daughter long before the child was able to understand her
+  mother's meaning. Parents can not begin too early to win the
+  child's love and confidence, and they should spare no pains to
+  maintain these to mature years. Those who do will find that their
+  children will never, even to old age, fail to come to them for
+  sympathy and advice. Children so reared will always love and
+  honor their father and mother as the Bible says they should, and
+  will look upon their parents' lives as examples for them to
+  imitate. See to it that you show yourself a good pattern, in
+  thought, word, and deed, for them to follow.</p>
+  <hr style="width: 65%;">
+  <a name="CHAPTER_XXVII"></a>
+
+  <h2>CHAPTER XXVII.</h2><br>
+
+  <center>
+    USEFUL HINTS.
+  </center>
+
+  <p>There is no definite rule whereby parents may control their
+  home, except to seek advice from God, for no two families have
+  the same environment. Any method that will bring about the
+  desired result may be applied; but the method must be systematic
+  and thorough. A positive attitude is good, and should be
+  encouraged, but harshness ought never to be used. The latter will
+  tend to discouragement and resentment in the child, while the
+  former will teach the difference between right and wrong.</p>
+
+  <p>Be charitable to your children in regard to their faults and
+  failings, so that they may learn by your example to be charitable
+  to each other and to their fellows. Teach them the blessings that
+  charity will bring to them; show them that it is the greatest of
+  God's gifts and that without it they will meet many buffetings
+  from their contact with the world. Remember that Paul speaks of
+  it as "the more excellent way" and admonishes us to desire it
+  above all things else.</p>
+
+  <p>Children must have entertainment. Rich and costly furniture,
+  elaborate parties, or even guests are not necessary. Children may
+  be entertained in a very simple manner. What child does not enjoy
+  the old-fashioned game of hide-and-seek, tag, or some such
+  innocent amusement with Papa and Mama? It may take a little of
+  your time, but what of that? Do all you can to make your home the
+  happiest place on earth for your children.</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes," says one, "that will do while the children are little;
+  but just wait until they grow up, and then they will seek other
+  company." I did not say that they must always stay with you. Of
+  course they will desire to go from home sometimes. What I mean is
+  that we can make home so attractive that they will note the
+  difference between it and the outside world. The interest we take
+  in them will constrain them to remain at home and to return when
+  away from it. Home! Oh that beautiful word! Poets have written
+  about it, choirs have sung about it, but who can fathom the
+  meaning of that little word, home! None but the child who has
+  been taught to revere, cherish, and enjoy it, and then looking
+  back remembers the happy years spent in the home circle.</p>
+
+  <p>I think that I hear a father say, "When I return from my work,
+  I am so tired I can not stand the children's noise." Is that so?
+  Do you not love your children, and are you not working for their
+  welfare! If so, do you not think that a little less labor with
+  your hands and a little time spent with them would be more
+  profitable? Perhaps a little romp or chat with them would rest
+  you. Try it anyway. You who are desk workers can afford it: it
+  will help you to cast off the responsibilities of the day and the
+  better prepare you for the morrow. A romp with the children is
+  not lost; but, on the other hand, is a benefit for both parent
+  and child. Thoughtful parents can think of many things that will
+  increase the interest in home and will draw them closer to their
+  children.</p>
+
+  <p>Sometimes it is good for the children to visit their friends,
+  but parents should always be acquainted with these friends. Never
+  let your child go where games are played that you would not allow
+  played in your own home. Here is where conscience and confidence
+  will help you. Be cautious about allowing your child to go
+  somewhere to stay all night. In this way many a child has learned
+  evil practises and in some cases been ruined. Then, too, it draws
+  his mind away from the home circle.</p>
+
+  <p>"But," you say, "all this I have done, and yet my children are
+  now forgetful of it all. They are indulging in many things that
+  they were taught to be harmful to the soul." My dear friend, can
+  you not remember when this state of things began? Can you not
+  point to a time when there was a drifting from your home circle?
+  when home life began to seem too narrow for your child? when he
+  began to crave the association of others more than that of his
+  own brothers and sisters? Did you at that time lift up your home
+  banner and shield? Did you tell him of the rapids in the
+  distance? "No," you falteringly answer; "I thought there could be
+  no harm in allowing him to mingle with his chums at school and to
+  visit them in their homes. I was afraid to be too particular,
+  lest he should think me too strict with him." Ah! friend, that
+  was your golden opportunity, and you failed to see it. After
+  instructing the child, you should have bowed with him in prayer,
+  giving him over to God's keeping. Then, if he chose to
+  go&mdash;remembering that your prayers were following
+  him&mdash;nine chances out of ten he would have returned with
+  words similar to those spoken by a youth who had been permitted
+  to attend a party. In answer to his father's question he said,
+  "Yes; I had a good time, but I have better times at home."
+  "Better times at home!" Think of it, parents! Is it not worth
+  some self-denial, some sacrifices, on pour part, to have your
+  home spoken of in this manner?</p>
+
+  <p>"Yes," says a mother, "that is all right when both parents are
+  in harmony and have salvation; but suppose that the parents are
+  poor and that one is unsaved?" I have seen just such homes as
+  this governed in the manner whereof I speak. God gave more grace
+  and strength to the saved companion; and, although there were
+  many difficulties to encounter, yet the saved one was able to
+  influence the home for God. "All things are possible to him that
+  believeth," said Christ in olden times, and his statement is
+  still true.</p>
+
+  <p>Again, I hear a parent whose loved companion has recently died
+  say, "What can I do now to train my children aright?" There comes
+  before my mind a beautiful scene of a faithful mother with her
+  son and daughter whom she had brought up to God's glory. She was
+  left alone with these two precious ones to guide and rear to
+  manhood and womanhood. She bade adieu to the words "I can't" and
+  with determination went about her task. As God never lets such
+  zeal go without assistance, this mother found help in time of
+  need. Another scene which I love to recall is that of a devoted
+  father and by his side his two motherless daughters just entering
+  womanhood. He gives them every spare moment that he has, and both
+  are real examples of trust and purity.</p>
+
+  <p>In your zeal to find entertainment for your children, do not
+  forget that they must have employment. See that every member of
+  your household has certain work to do. This work should be suited
+  to the years and the strength of the individual and, if possible,
+  to his likes and dislikes. Work of the proper kind will
+  strengthen the muscles, improve the health, keep out many evils,
+  and create in the young a desire to help bear the burdens of
+  life. Periods of rest may be made profitable by having on hand as
+  much wholesome literature as you are able to secure. By this
+  means much useful knowledge may be stored. The reading need not
+  be confined wholly to religious works; reliable treatises on
+  science, art, mechanics, cooking, chemistry, domestic economy,
+  health, etc., are all profitable if not indulged in to the
+  exclusion of religious literature. If you trust God, he will help
+  you to know what to do.</p>
+
+  <p>A lady once said, "Our children are what we make them, and we
+  get out of them just what we put in." These words contain much
+  truth. God holds all parents, according to their light and
+  understanding, responsible for the training of their
+  children.</p>
+
+  <p>If you have a preference among your children, never reveal it.
+  On the contrary, endeavor to place the less favored ahead in your
+  care and attention. You can justly do this, for the favorite will
+  get all the attention he deserves anyway. I well remember a case
+  where the mother's favorite son brought sorrow and shame to the
+  entire household by stealing from his own father, simply because
+  she had humored and petted him in childhood. Parents can not be
+  too careful in this respect.</p>
+
+  <p>Many a mother does not realize how highly her children value
+  her opinion. A boy had met with an accident that somewhat
+  disfigured him for a time. While he was preparing to leave for
+  school, his mother said, "You will no doubt be made sport of
+  today; are you able to bear it?" His answer was, "Oh, I don't
+  care what any one says about me but you; but if you were to make
+  fun of me, I couldn't stand it."</p>
+
+  <center>
+    SWEET GEM OF THE HOME.
+  </center>
+
+  <div class="poem">
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Thou formal home, so graced, so blest,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>With earthly treasures rare;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Within thy portals we expect</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>All graces rich and fair.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>We gaze, we search, but all in vain;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>The gem we love so well,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>"Sweet innocence," doth not remain,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Nor in thy chambers dwell.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Thy children, as the world they greet,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Are bearing tales of thee;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>"I was not warned," they oft repeat,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Nor taught at Mother's knee.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Sweet Innocence, thou heav'nly grace,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Rich gem from God above!</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Thy touch upon the human face</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Reveals but peace and love.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Thy treasures richer far than gold,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thy gifts of greatest worth,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Might grace our homes, except for sin,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Whose curse now sweeps the earth.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>We look for thee within the maid,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>With beauty, grace, and charm,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>But find thy flight she hath not stayed,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Nor doth she feel alarm.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Then in the lad, whose noble brow</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thy presence might suggest;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>With closer view we must allow</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>By thee he is not blest.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>E'en when we look within the child</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>And laud his graces sweet,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>We find his mind so soon defiled</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>For thee 'tis no retreat.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>"And why?" we ask, "oh! why is this?</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Such need and dearth abound.</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Oh! why in homes of promised bliss</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>May not this gem be found?"</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>The mystery, so deep, so great,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Is simply lack of prayer;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Is bidding timely warning wait</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>For daily toil and care.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Allowing things that crumble, waste,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Our whole attention claim,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>We cause sweet Innocence in haste</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>To leave our homes to shame.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>But thee, sweet grace, we find in some&mdash;</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thank God thou art not lost!&mdash;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>We see thee in the Christian home</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>As royal guest and host.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>We note the mother as she pleads</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>For counsel from God's throne,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Then goes with wisdom that she needs</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>And strength to make it known.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>We watch the child in this true home,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>And in its face so fair</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>We recognise what doth become</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>A faithful mother's prayer.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Sweet Innocence! may we extol,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Within the home, thy art;</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>Thy power to beautify the soul,</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>To teach the pure in heart.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Thou gift divine! thou fairest gem!</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thy presence may we crave,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>That thou mayst grace our diadem</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>In life beyond the grave.</i></p>
+    </div>
+
+    <div class="stanza">
+      <p><i>Reveal, O grace, unto the world</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>Thy beauties rich and rare,</i></p>
+
+      <p><i>That all may understand and know</i></p>
+
+      <p class="i2"><i>What mothers find in prayer</i>.</p>
+    </div>
+  </div>
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
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+</body>
+</html>
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+Project Gutenberg's The value of a praying mother, by Isabel C. Byrum
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The value of a praying mother
+
+Author: Isabel C. Byrum
+
+Release Date: April 15, 2004 [EBook #12042]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Joel Erickson, Michael Ciesielski, and the Online
+Distributed Proofreading Team.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER
+
+BY ISABEL C. BYRUM
+
+GOSPEL TRUMPET COMPANY
+
+First Printing 1911
+
+
+
+
+PREFACE.
+
+This book has a purpose: it is sent forth as precious seed, with the
+prayer that it will fall into "good soil" in many hearts and bring forth
+an hundredfold.
+
+All parents with natural affection desire the best things for their
+children. Such fathers and mothers have high hopes that from their home
+will go forth noble men and women--yes, even heroes. Many fail to
+realize the attainment of this ideal in their children, because of a
+lack of the knowledge necessary to bring about the desired development
+in the child-life.
+
+The following pages were written with the fervent hope that they would,
+at least in some measure, be a help in developing the young lives
+entrusted to your care. If your harvest-time is past; if your children
+have grown up and have left the old home, you may be able to help some
+one who still has little ones to train.
+
+One object in relating actual experiences was that the reader might be
+guided in the application of those principles of child-training which,
+if merely stated in the abstract, might be hard to understand and
+difficult of application. The principles herein stated are not mere
+theories, but they have the commendation of having stood the test of
+use. Two other objects of this simple story of home life are that the
+thoughtful mother may get a view of the effects of certain extreme
+environments on the child-life and, by observing the substantial results
+accomplished by a praying mother, she may discover the secret of
+success.
+
+The incidents of this little home story are all true, even to minute
+details, as far as memory serves one of the actors in this drama of home
+life after the lapse of many years; but as most of the principal
+characters are still living, the correct names have, for the most part,
+been withheld. Should one of your children ask, "Mama, who was Bessie
+Worthington?" you can truthfully answer, "She was a little girl who
+lived in Michigan; and she and her papa and mama are still living."
+
+If, by reading this little book, any mother shall see wherein she can
+improve upon her past teaching, and thus be able to do more for the
+spiritual and moral well-being of her children, the writer will feel
+amply rewarded. May the blessing of God attend it as it goes forth.
+
+  Yours in Him,
+    Isabel C. Byrum.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+  CHAPTER I.
+  Two Scenes
+
+  CHAPTER II.
+  A Praying Mother
+
+  CHAPTER III.
+  Early Training
+
+  CHAPTER IV.
+  God's Care
+
+  CHAPTER V.
+  Consecration
+
+  CHAPTER VI.
+  Conscience
+
+  CHAPTER VII.
+  A Downward Step
+
+  CHAPTER VIII.
+  A Wise Decision
+
+  CHAPTER IX.
+  Self-Control
+
+  CHAPTER X.
+  Parental Control
+
+  CHAPTER XI.
+  Christian Experience
+
+  CHAPTER XII.
+  The Beautiful Secret
+
+  CHAPTER XIII.
+  Blessing and Trial
+
+  CHAPTER XIV.
+  The Surprise Party
+
+  CHAPTER XV.
+  Leroy's Healing
+
+  CHAPTER XVI.
+  Explaining the Divine Life
+
+  CHAPTER XVII.
+  Temptations
+
+  CHAPTER XVIII.
+  Answers to Prayer
+
+  CHAPTER XIX.
+  Lost in the Woods
+
+  CHAPTER XX.
+  Novel-Reading
+
+  CHAPTER XXI.
+  Glad Tidings
+
+  CHAPTER XXII.
+  The Meetings
+
+  CHAPTER XXIII.
+  Bessie Sees Her Duty
+
+  CHAPTER XXIV.
+  Reverie
+
+  CHAPTER XXV.
+  A Plea to Mothers
+
+  CHAPTER XXVI.
+  Parental Duty
+
+  CHAPTER XXVII.
+  Useful Hints
+
+
+
+
+THE VALUE OF A PRAYING MOTHER
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+TWO SCENES.
+
+How delightful to step into the home where God is counselor of both
+parent and child! How blessed the companionship in such a home! There
+God counsels in sweet, tender tones. He teaches his will and gives the
+needed wisdom. God is man's truest and best teacher. James says, "If any
+of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally
+... and it shall be given him." Be the home ever so beautiful, if it is
+not a house of prayer, it is not a place of true happiness. Parents
+should often commune with the Lord; especially the mother, with her many
+cares and perplexities, if she would do justice to the little ones
+entrusted to her care.
+
+A beautiful picture now comes to my mind--a picture of an ideal mother
+of olden time. She dwelt in Ramah of Palestine. Her lonely home nestled
+among the lonely hills. She loved to commune with the Lord, for deep in
+her bosom she carried a sorrow that only he could help her to bear. Her
+home lacked that sweet sunlight which innocent childhood brings. She
+longed and prayed for a little life to guide and direct in the ways of
+the Lord.
+
+Once every year she went with her husband to Shiloh, where sacrifices
+were offered, and there publicly worshiped the Lord. When at the house
+of the Lord one day, she prayed long and earnestly that God would grant
+the desire of her heart. "O Lord of hosts," she prayed, "if thou wilt
+indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and
+not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man
+child, then I will give him unto the Lord all the days of his life, and
+there shall no razor come upon his head."
+
+A scene like this must have been rare even to the priest of God; for he
+mistook this sad woman for one drunken with wine. She begged him not to
+look upon her as such. When the man of God saw by her modest, earnest
+words that she was not drunken as he had supposed, he changed his
+reproof into a blessing. "Go in peace," he said, "and the God of Israel
+grant thy petition that thou hast asked of him." With perfect confidence
+that God had heard and answered prayer, the woman arose and returned
+with her husband to their home in Ramah.
+
+The next year she did not go up to Shiloh; for God had granted her
+petition and had given her a little son. Her husband was willing for her
+to remain at home, but he cautioned her not to forget her promise to the
+Lord. He feared, perhaps, that the mother might become so attached to
+her child that she would be unwilling to part with him as she had
+promised. His warning was unnecessary.
+
+As soon as Samuel (for this is what the mother named her son) was old
+enough to be useful, she took him to the house of God and presented him
+to the Lord. It must have sounded to the aged priest (who soon would
+have to cease his work upon earth) like a voice from heaven, when the
+happy mother, pointing to her child, said: "For this child I prayed; and
+the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him: therefore also
+I have lent him to the Lord; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to
+the Lord."
+
+Again the mother prays; this time not in sorrow, but from a heart filled
+with thanksgiving. She feels no regret because of her vow. Her child
+became a great blessing to many people, and the Lord gave her other sons
+and daughters to cheer her heart.
+
+By reading the story we find that "the child Samuel grew and was in
+favor both with the Lord and also with men." Why was this? In answer to
+his devoted mother's prayer, the Holy Spirit hovered over that child,
+shielding him from the cruel darts and arrows of the enemy. He had been
+taught the ways of the Lord from his cradle and his life was fully
+consecrated to God.
+
+A different scene comes before me now--a scene that brings a shudder.
+Upon a ship sailing along the shores of France were a man and his wife
+on their way to join a band of villainous people in India. Being on a
+secret mission, they traveled slowly and carefully. It was a tedious and
+dangerous journey. One stormy day, on the Bay of Biscay, a child was
+born to them.
+
+No loving welcome from the lips of a prayerful parent awaited this poor
+little innocent child; instead, curses were his portion, and, by the
+order of his mother, he was cast aside in a pile of rubbish to die. By
+chance the father passed that way and, finding his child's poor little
+perishing form, picked it up, took it to his wife, and commanded her to
+see that it was cared for.
+
+As the child grew and developed in this atmosphere of sin and
+degradation, is it strange that he partook of his parents' nature and
+developed even worse habits than they? Unless the proper home influence
+is thrown around a child, he can not help suffering from the inherited
+sins of his parents.
+
+When this child became a man, he knew nothing of virtue and honesty.
+His life was enveloped in a shroud of darkest crimes. Leaving India, he
+went to Europe and from there sailed to America. Each year found him
+better acquainted with court proceedings and prison walls. It was a
+common thing for him to break into a man's house and steal every
+valuable that he could find.
+
+I recently met this man and heard from his own lips the dark story of
+his life. As he was relating an account of a desperate burglary, I asked
+him what he would have done if the man of the house had awakened.
+"Please do not ask me." he answered. "I was always armed, and a man's
+life was no more to me than a dog's. There are scenes that I can not, I
+dare not, recall, for I am a changed man now."
+
+Thank God, he is a changed man. He had not been too vile for God to
+find. Jesus had cleansed his heart from all desire to do evil. Having
+confessed his crimes and given himself up to be punished, he had been
+sent to prison, but because of good behavior had been soon pardoned. He
+is now spending his life among the lower class, whom he understands so
+well and pities so much, trying to show them the way of salvation.
+
+Note the atmosphere that surrounded the cradle of each of the babes of
+whom we have been speaking. In the first home we find prayer, love,
+hope, and tenderness; in the last, sin, hatred, crime, and villainy. Oh
+that mothers everywhere would take warning! If only these two pictures
+could be framed and hung in the recesses of every mother's heart where
+they might teach their silent lesson! If only mothers might see how
+powerful for good or evil is their influence; how the affections and the
+mental powers may be moulded by prayer and maternal love, and how the
+groundwork for the future of the child may be laid in its early
+training!
+
+A sensible mother has a charm and wields an influence that takes a fast
+hold on the hearts of those who are dear to her. The kindly sympathy of
+youth, the deep affection of manhood, can be traced to influences that
+began at mother's knee.
+
+What true, prayerful mother does not feel as her child closely nestles
+to her bosom that she is invested with a divine, mysterious power, an
+influence which she can not understand? Then it is that she sees her
+imperfections and longs for wisdom to know how to guide her child. God
+alone can supply that understanding. She is her child's book of wisdom,
+love, and, beauty, but she should be of God's writing.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+A PRAYING MOTHER.
+
+Still another mother comes before my mind--an earnest, zealous, pious
+mother, who fashioned her life and example continually by God's Word and
+endeavored daily to teach her children the deep truths of salvation in
+language so simple that they could understand, to seek out the causes of
+their failures and discouragements, and to give them timely advice and
+instruction.
+
+As I trace a few of her experiences, which are all true incidents, I
+trust they may sink into some perplexed mother's heart and enable her to
+wield the instruments of love and prayer about her darlings and to be
+more able to guide their tender hearts in the right course.
+
+Mrs. Worthington lived in the great city of Chicago, in a small cottage
+on Portland Avenue near Thirty-first Street. Nothing about the dwelling
+was elaborate; everything was simple, but very neat. Pretty vines
+trailed gracefully over the porch and windows, and a few flower beds
+filled up the dull nooks and corners. In front of the house was a grassy
+lawn enclosed by a picket fence. Here the children could play apart from
+the rough waifs that thronged the street. Within the cottage the same
+quiet taste was in evidence.
+
+Every day in her cozy sitting-room Mrs. Worthington talked with her
+little girls, Bessie and Louise. In times of trouble and perplexity she
+bowed with them in prayer. How much the children enjoyed their mother's
+comradeship and counsel! The mother realized the importance of these
+early impressions made on the child's mind. She had promised God to do
+all in her power to train her children for heaven. She had commenced
+early, even from the time she had first looked into the depths of their
+innocent eyes.
+
+She had taught them that when any trouble arose between them, they were
+to kneel in prayer and ask God to help the one who had done wrong. Once
+she heard Bessie say, "Louise, I have prayed for you three times, and I
+believe I shall have to pray for you again." Louise was not a bad child;
+she had as sweet and happy a disposition as Bessie; but, as with all
+small children, little difficulties arose between them.
+
+Wishing to know what her two little girls would do on such an occasion,
+she watched them. Bessie quietly took her little sister's hand, lead her
+aside, and knelt with her in prayer. Then with all earnestness she
+prayed, "O Lord, help Louise to to be good, for Jesus' sake. Amen." The
+prayer, though short, was effectual; for both went back to their play
+with happy faces, and they had no more trouble that day.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+
+EARLY TRAINING.
+
+As the daily teaching continued, Mrs. Worthington taught her children
+many helpful lessons. She told them of the great necessity of a Savior
+and of his mission to humanity. She taught them how God looked upon
+disobedience, and always illustrated her talks with interesting Bible
+stories and their every-day experiences. In this way she taught them not
+only the evil effects of wrong-doing but also the sure reward of
+right-doing.
+
+One summer, while the family was spending their vacation in Michigan at
+the pretty country home of an aunt, something happened that helped the
+children to apprehend their mother's meaning. This incident, although in
+some measure painful to Mrs. Worthington, impressed the lesson upon
+their young minds almost better than anything else could have.
+
+The house was situated upon a hill that sloped gradually down to the
+shore of a lake. In many ways this lake was very attractive, especially
+to the two little girls, who were then at the ages of two and four
+years. Mrs. Worthington carefully warned the children of the danger of
+playing near the lake shore; but, not realizing the greatness of their
+temptation, she trusted them too far. Time after time they made their
+way down to the water's edge. Something must be done; but what?
+
+One morning Mr. Worthington noticed his little daughters standing in
+front of the house. Although he could not hear their words, he clearly
+perceived that they were talking about a trip to the forbidden lake.
+They hesitated some time, but at last walked slowly down the hillside to
+the lake. Again they hesitated. Finally descending the steps of the
+boat-house, they stepped into the sparkling water. How dainty the
+ripples about their feet, and how clear the water!
+
+"Surely there can be no harm or danger," thought Bessie; but she
+remembered the oft-repeated warnings of her parents and aunt. The
+shells lost their beauty when she remembered hearing her father say that
+bears sometimes travel up and down the shores. What if a bear should
+some that morning? She gave a quick, searching glance among the trees,
+but, seeing nothing, she tried to forget about bears. She might have
+been able to forget about them, but she could not forget that she was
+disobedient. Her conscience would not let her; the more she tried to
+forget, the louder it talked. She was just about to take her little
+sister back to the house, when she heard a rustling among the branches
+of a tall tree directly above the path over which she must pass. The
+next moment she thought she heard a low growl. "O Louise," she cried, "I
+do believe that is the bear papa told us about." The tree then began to
+sway from side to side and they heard another growl, louder than the
+first. Seizing her little sister's hand, Bessie hastened to help her out
+of the water. By this time both were thoroughly frightened; for while
+visiting one of the parks in Chicago once, they had seen a bear hug his
+keeper until he could not stand. Bessie remembered the incident and
+tried to help Louise to hurry; but when the tree shook again, this time
+just above her, she screamed wildly and ran a few steps alone. When she
+got past the danger-point her reason returned, and, looking back, she
+saw her sister's great danger, as she stood just beneath the fatal tree.
+Rushing back, she almost carried Louise (while the growling continued),
+and they were soon up the hill. In the house they told of their strange
+experience, the substance of the story being, "The bear; The bear!"
+
+Mr. Worthington soon joined the excited circle and secretly explained to
+his wife that he had been the supposed bear and that he had taken this
+course to teach the children a lesson. His plan was successful, for
+after that the children did not care to go to the lake alone.
+
+Mrs. Worthington, however, was very sad because her children had been
+deceived. Unlike her husband, who was not a Christian, she believed in
+keeping the confidence of her children and in praying with them when
+they were disobedient. She decided to be more prompt and watchful in the
+future and to shield them from temptation as much as possible.
+
+She improved the opportunity for some wholesome instruction. From the
+stories of Jonah and King Saul she brought forth some excellent lessons
+on disobedience. She told the children that, although they might think
+when tempted to disobey that nobody saw them, yet there was one whose
+eye was ever beholding their deeds, whether good or bad. Then she knelt
+in prayer with her children, praying with a full heart to that God who
+is everywhere present and from whom all our strength must come, that he
+would teach her how to guide the precious souls entrusted to her care.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+
+GOD'S CARE.
+
+Considering this mother's deep piety, do you think it strange that she
+saw God's hand in everything that befell her, and ascribed praise to him
+for it all?
+
+After the return of the family to their home in Chicago the father
+became very ill. His sickness was so severe and so long continued that
+poverty began to threaten them. Mr. Worthington could not take the
+resigned view of their circumstances that his wife took, but often gave
+way to complaining. But Mrs. Worthington thanked God that things were no
+worse and ever encouraged her husband with the promises that God would
+provide.
+
+At last Christmas morning came and found them in extreme poverty. Mr.
+Worthington still weak from his illness, but able to go around a little,
+came in from his morning walk very gloomy and feeling that his friends
+were very few. "This is the saddest Christmas I have ever known," he
+said to Mrs. Worthington. "It is almost more than I can bear to know
+that I have nothing to give the children today, and barely enough in the
+house to eat. I did not realize it so keenly until I saw an old man
+trudging along Thirty-first Street with a large pack upon his back. That
+man was surely going to surprise some of his friends. How much we need a
+friend like that!" "Never mind," said Mrs. Worthington softly; "God has
+promised to be a friend in time of need, and I believe he will care for
+us today."
+
+As she finished speaking, a rap was heard at the door. Mr. Worthington
+arose slowly, wondering who could be their early caller. When he opened
+the door, he was greatly surprised to see the aged man with the pack and
+to find him to be his own father. Mr. Worthington had entered the house
+too soon to see his father turn the corner and enter the yard.
+
+As the large burden was laid upon the floor and unpacked, there seemed
+to be no end to the good things. A turkey, cake, pies, in fact, all that
+was needful for a generous Christmas dinner, as well as a gift for each
+one. It was a very thankful family that gathered around the table that
+day.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+
+CONSECRATION.
+
+In regard to her children, Mrs. Worthington had passed through a deep
+consecration. She fully realized that they were only lent her by the
+Lord, entrusted to her care to be trained for usefulness in his service,
+and she was determined to do all in her power to prepare them as the
+Lord intended. In all sincerity, she had placed her children upon the
+altar of consecration, promising God never to let her will interfere
+with his designs concerning them.
+
+I do not think a child of God ever makes a consecration that is not
+tested in some form or other. This mother's consecration was tested.
+
+A wealthy aunt, having lost all her children and being very lonely,
+thought to fill the vacancy in her heart and home by adopting a little
+child. After several vain attempts to find a suitable child, she sought
+the home of her niece, Mrs. Worthington. She came with many misgivings.
+When she made her errand known, her niece said: "Auntie, my children are
+no longer mine; I have given them to the Lord, and whatever is his will
+concerning them shall be mine. You will have to obtain my husband's
+consent." Thus far Aunt A. was delighted with her success, and she
+eagerly sought the father. She tried to point out to Mrs. Worthington,
+who was heartbroken at the prospect of losing her child, how abundantly
+able she (the aunt) was to provide for the child and spoke of the
+extreme poverty of the Worthington home. The mother knew all this, but
+she knew too that God's Spirit does not always rule in wealthy homes.
+Would she do right to let her child slip from under her parental care?
+Many thoughts of this nature surged through her brain, and many
+temptations to say no came to her; but instead of giving a decisive
+answer she sought counsel from the all-wise Counselor. While in prayer
+she thought of faithful Abraham's trial regarding Isaac, and she felt
+that God was just as able to carry her through temptation or test, if
+she submitted all to his will.
+
+Mr. Worthington gave his consent for one of the children to go for a
+visit. The aunt having chosen Bessie, hasty preparations were made for
+their departure. As the mother kissed her curly-haired little girl
+good-by, her heart seemed bursting with sorrow. She tried to control her
+feelings, but only God knew the wound that her aunt's parting words
+made. "Use your influence in my behalf, Niece, with your husband, in
+case we want to keep Bessie," she had said, and then the great train
+moved slowly from the station. Abraham was all the mother could think of
+on her return home. Oh! would God give her back her child?
+
+Letter after letter came, each telling how fond the aunt and her husband
+were of Bessie and how happy she was in her new home, but not a word
+about her return. Four, five, six weeks passed. Then one day a letter
+came stating that they had decided not to adopt a child now and that, as
+Bessie was getting homesick, the parents might expect her home the next
+day. Then, it had been only a test! Oh, how glad Mrs. Worthington was
+that she had been faithful. Yes, her God was the very same God that
+Abraham had served centuries before. It was hard to wait until
+train-time the next day. When once more the loving mother held her
+darling child in her arms, the tears that could not flow for weeks
+streamed freely.
+
+Bessie was glad to be at home again. After the cold, formal, loveless
+life at her aunt's, she appreciated her own humble home more than ever
+before.
+
+But a far greater test was waiting the dear mother--one that would call
+for more than human strength to bear.
+
+After Bessie's return Mrs. Worthington put forth every effort to teach
+her children more about heavenly things. She bore in mind the
+scripture, "Train up a child in the way it should go; and when it is
+old, it will not depart from it." As she did not want to fail along this
+line, she spent every spare moment with her children. And she seldom let
+them go from home to visit unaccompanied by her; but one day, being very
+busy, she let them go alone to their grandmother's. The distance was not
+great, and Bessie, now nearly six years old, knew the way perfectly. All
+would have been well had their grandmother been at home. She being away,
+the girls stopped to watch some children at play. These children were
+breaking old bottles that they had picked up in the alley. As the little
+girls stood watching the sport, a large brown bottle was brought forth
+and with a heavy stroke of the hammer was broken. Small pieces of the
+glass flew in every direction. One piece struck Louise on the palm of
+the hand just below the thumb, knocking off the skin, but not producing
+a wound deep enough to bleed. Her grandmother, who appeared on the
+scene just at this time, examined the wound. She though it would soon be
+all right, but bound it up with a cloth to satisfy the child. The
+children played as usual and then returned home in time for supper.
+
+When they came in, their mother, who had been very busy through the day
+at housecleaning, was preparing a hasty supper, and she gave them no
+special attention. The family were soon seated around the supper-table.
+They had not been there long until Mrs. Worthington noticed that Louise
+was not eating. She asked the child why she did not eat, but received no
+reply. On being asked if her throat was sore, Louise nodded her head.
+Still the mother did not think the child's condition serious; and, after
+pinning a flannel around the child's neck, she did the evening work and
+prepared to attend a prayer-meeting. She had noticed the rag upon
+Louise's hand, but Bessie had laughed about the little cut and said,
+"Grandma tied it up just to please Louise."
+
+Although the meeting that night was unusually good, Mrs. Worthington
+could not forget the expression on her child's face as they had kissed
+each other good-by. It seemed to be before her all the time; so she
+really felt relieved when the meeting closed and she could return.
+
+Upon entering her home she immediately asked her husband, "How is
+Louise?" He answered that she had been very naughty and cross and that
+he had been obliged to punish her. This news increased the mother's
+fears. Feeling of the child's head, she found it hot and feverish.
+
+As Louise continued to grow worse, at two o'clock in the morning Mrs.
+Worthington thought it best to examine the child's throat; but when the
+mother asked the little girl to open her mouth, she said, "Mama, I
+can't."
+
+"What!" exclaimed the mother, "you can not open your mouth! Why, child,
+what is the matter with you?" Although Louise tried repeatedly to open
+her mouth, she could force her teeth apart only about an eighth of an
+inch, and only with great difficulty could she speak.
+
+By this time Mr. Worthington had fully awakened to the fact that
+something serious was troubling his child, and he sprang to her side. As
+soon as possible they summoned a doctor. He found that the cut on her
+hand had caused lockjaw, but said that there was no cause for alarm. The
+parents, however, felt very anxious and called in several doctors for
+consultation. They found that it was too late to do anything for the
+child. "The course of this disease," said the doctors, "is usually very
+rapid; and we are sorry that we can offer no hope."
+
+When Mrs. Worthington heard the doctors' verdict, anguish such as she
+had never experienced before filled her soul. Her thoughts went back to
+the previous night. Oh! why had she not examined the child closely
+then? In her distress she cried to the Lord, saying, "Dear Lord, what
+can this mean? Must I go through another test with one of my children?
+If so, help me to say amen to thy will!"
+
+Everything possible was done for the comfort of the little sufferer. The
+little life was swiftly nearing its close. Even when the doctors
+injected medicine into her arm to relieve her pain, she did not murmur.
+Forgetful for a moment of her suffering, she looked into her mother's
+eyes and said, "Mama, I love you"; then turning to her father, "Papa, I
+love you"; and then to the doctors and friends, "I like all these
+folks."
+
+What a beautiful testimony? She had only kindly feelings in her heart
+for all, even for the doctors, who seemed to be her enemies. Her words
+were as a message sent from God as they fell into that mother's heart.
+They seemed as sweet incense and a soothing balm to her troubled spirit.
+Gazing into the child's face, the mother read of the tender,
+compassionate love of God for suffering humanity; she read of the depth
+of Christ's love for the innocent and pure; and, by the heavenly smile
+that lighted the little face as her darling sank into unconsciousness,
+she saw that the child realized her Savior's presence.
+
+Slowly the tide is going out; the soul of the child is passing from the
+mother's presence into life immortal. "O my darling, speak to me once
+more!" The large blue eyes slowly unclose; a look of disappointment
+comes into them as she says, "Where has Jesus gone?" The dear eyes
+softly close; she sinks again into unconsciousness; the beautiful
+expression of happiness returns; the mother knows that her darling is in
+the arms of Jesus and is content.
+
+Mrs. Worthington did not sorrow as those who have no hope; for she knew
+that her heavenly Father knew best, and she could look up with
+confidence and say, "The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away:
+blessed be the name of the Lord." With the father it was different. Up
+to this time he had never had any serious thoughts of a future life. He
+knew that his wife was a good woman, but he considered her religious
+views rather strange. She had seen so much error among the popular
+religious denominations and had felt such bondage when meeting with
+them, that she worshiped with a few spiritual people in a little
+prayer-meeting. Because of this peculiarity, he had even feared that her
+mind was affected; but now, when he saw her fortitude under deep trial,
+he felt that surely there was an unseen power supporting her--a power
+that he secretly longed to possess, although the time for attaining it
+he set indefinitely in the future.
+
+As Louise had been his idol, his grief was deep. It stirred his whole
+being. Her last testimony had convinced him that there is a Savior, that
+he is interested in mankind, and that he is able to keep in every
+affliction. Standing by the cold, lifeless form of his little daughter,
+he promised God that he would meet her in heaven.
+
+After these things Mrs. Worthington realized more keenly than ever the
+value of confidence between children and parents. With renewed energy
+she sought daily to strengthen that cord which now seemed to her almost
+divine. Her daily talks now contained a richer and deeper meaning to
+Bessie, whose understanding of heavenly things was growing clearer since
+her sister's death. Through her mother's teaching she gained a knowledge
+of God and spiritual life that would have taken her many, many years to
+comprehend had she been left to herself.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was surprised and pleased to note Bessie's confidence
+in her mother's teaching. One day, in answer to the assertion of a
+little neighbor girl that Louise was not alive, but dead and buried,
+Bessie said, "I know Sister's body is dead and buried, but her soul is
+living with Jesus. He was waiting for her when she died and took her
+soul away with him."
+
+"I am glad, my child," said her mother, sometime after this
+conversation, "that you love to come to me with things that trouble you;
+for as you're going to school now, you can not help hearing and seeing
+many things that I would rather keep from you until you're older. You'll
+see and hear many things that you should allow no place in your life;
+but if you'll always come to me, I'll instruct you so that they'll not
+be harmful to you. When I was a child, how I longed for some one in whom
+I could confide! My mother was a good woman, but she didn't realize how
+I often longed to unburden my heart to her. Father understood this
+desire, and we often had confidential talks.
+
+"I shall never forget my gratitude when he took me upon his knee one day
+and told me about many dangers young girls must meet and explained how I
+might avoid them. His words were just in time; for I had often been
+allowed to spend the evening at the home of a little friend, who, like
+myself, was not taught how to meet danger. At first our play had been
+innocent sports, but a short time before my father's talk a cousin had
+come to board with the family and attend school. He at once encouraged
+us to play a game of cards with him. As I knew nothing of the evil of
+card-playing, I was eager to learn; for he gave me much praise and
+allowed me to win very often, always rewarding me with a pile of candy.
+The appearance of so much candy in my possession had led to my father's
+talk. As father unfolded the nature of card-playing and gambling, a
+horror for them that has never left me came into my heart. After this I
+often sought my father's counsel; his faithful admonitions and tender
+words of encouragement caused me to have more and more confidence in
+him."
+
+Mrs. Worthington sighed deeply as she continued, "The memory of my dear
+father is sacred, Bessie. Many times I've thanked the Lord that my
+father knew the worth of prayer and the value of the confidence of his
+children. He helped me to tide over the most critical period of my life,
+and I love to recall the encouragement of his devoted life."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+
+CONSCIENCE.
+
+One day when Bessie was about eight years old, she said: "Mama, you've
+often told me that if I'd listen to the voice of conscience it would
+keep me out of danger. What is conscience? I don't understand."
+
+"My dear child," answered her mother, "your happiness depends upon a
+pure conscience, one that is void of offense. By the Lord's help, I will
+gladly explain. Conscience is that which causes us to feel bad when we
+do what we've been taught to be wrong. At first it is very tender and
+active. Then, no matter how enticing the temptation, the conscience will
+warn one not to yield. You've heard your conscience speaking to you,
+haven't you, Bessie?"
+
+"Yes, Mama," answered Bessie; "that was why I wanted to know more about
+it. I thought at first it was some person speaking; but when I
+remembered you had told me that we each have a conscience to tell us to
+do right, I knew it must be the voice of conscience."
+
+"When it speaks, you must listen," said Mrs. Worthington. "Give heed to
+its warnings. This little story will show you how careful we should be
+to heed the warning voice of conscience.
+
+"'Wishing to arise at an early hour each morning, a gentleman purchased
+an alarm-clock. He took it home, and, having set it, went to bed and
+slept soundly. In the morning, to the gentleman's great delight, the
+clock aroused him, so that he was able to get to work in time.
+
+"'For a time he would spring out of bed as soon as the alarm sounded,
+and the clock never failed to wake him. One morning, however, on hearing
+the clock sound its usual alarm, he awoke, but, feeling a little sleepy,
+he lay back on his pillow, thinking that he would get up in a short
+time. In a few minutes he fell asleep, and did not awake again until
+very late. He dressed hastily, and, missing his breakfast, hurried away
+to his work. He resolved not to be so foolish again, and for a time did
+better; but in a few days he had again overslept. He became more and
+more neglectful, failing time after time to heed the alarm. At length it
+only partially aroused him, and he soon slumbered again. Day by day it
+disturbed him less, until at last it did not arouse him at all, although
+it sounded as loudly as ever.'
+
+"So will it be with your conscience. If you don't heed its voice, you'll
+hear it speaking less loudly each day until its voice will at last cause
+you no discomfort. You'll then be in a very dangerous moral condition.
+No one but God can help you out. This is one reason why, Bessie, many
+people can do things that you can not.
+
+"Satan aimed his first blow at the conscience; for if he can silence it,
+then he can lead the soul deeper and deeper into sin."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+
+A DOWNWARD STEP.
+
+"I have good news for you, Bessie," said Mrs. Worthington as Bessie came
+skipping into the room from her play. "Your papa and I have decided to
+leave our little home here in Chicago and buy a home in Michigan."
+
+"Oh, how nice!" exclaimed Bessie, who was still in her eighth year.
+"Shall we live with Aunt Emma again?"
+
+"Yes, or rather she will live with us," said her mother, smiling. "Your
+auntie's health is very poor, and she is tired of the responsibility of
+farming; so we'll relieve her."
+
+The following weeks were happy ones for Bessie. The Lord had been good
+to her in many ways. He had given her a little baby brother to love and
+care for, and now she was about to have a pleasant home in the country.
+She had not forgotten the good times she had enjoyed on the farm with
+her little sister, and she was very eager for the month of August to
+come, the time when the family was to move. At last the time came to
+start. With beating heart Bessie counted the hours that must pass before
+she could run in the orchard and eat the luscious fruit.
+
+It was late in the afternoon when the Worthington family arrived at
+their new home. The greetings over, Bessie was contemplating a ramble
+where she had noticed some large red apples hanging; but just then her
+aunt said, "Bessie, you must not pick any of the fruit on the place this
+summer, as the farm is rented and the fruit does not belong to us." This
+was such a disappointment to the little girl that she could not restrain
+her tears.
+
+As the days passed by, she often looked longingly toward the tree where
+hung the beautiful apples, but she never once thought of pulling one,
+for her mother had carefully taught her the great evil of stealing. "But
+oh!" thought Bessie, "if only one of the apples would fall upon the
+ground, I could pick it up, and I wouldn't be stealing it." With this
+wish in her heart, she daily watched the trees in hopes that just one
+would fall.
+
+At last her hope was realized. Walking through the orchard one day after
+a hard wind-storm, she spied several large red apples lying in the soft
+sand. With a fast-beating heart, she hastened to pick them all up; and,
+placing them carefully in her apron, she hurried to the house, oft
+repeating to herself, "I didn't steal them, for the wind blew them off."
+
+As she entered the house, she began to tell how she came by the apples,
+but stopped in dismay, for she saw her mother's look of disapproval.
+Very tenderly Mrs. Worthington took her little daughter aside and,
+sitting down by her, said: "My dear, you don't understand what you've
+done: those apples are as truly stolen as if you had picked them from
+the tree. You must take them to Mrs. S. and explain that you didn't
+know you were stealing them. Taking little things and trying to ease the
+conscience by saying, 'It doesn't amount to anything,' causes the
+conscience to fall asleep and to cease its activity. Thus the evil habit
+of taking what doesn't belong to us becomes a part of our nature, and
+step by step we fall into greater sin.
+
+"I once heard of a young man who was about to be hanged upon the
+gallows. Just before the fatal moment he received permission to speak to
+any of his friends, if he desired. Calling for his aunt, who had reared
+him, he moved forward as if to speak to her, but instead he bit off her
+ear. Amid the exclamations of horror that followed, the young man said:
+'You think what I have done is cruel. Let me tell you that, had my aunt
+done her duty by me, I should not be here today. Had she taken the pains
+to inquire where I obtained the lead pencils, knives, handkerchiefs, and
+other small articles which I brought home from time to time; had she
+not accepted the flimsy excuse that I had found them; had she warned me
+of my danger, and not praised me for "finding" the things I had
+stolen,--I might have escaped this awful end.'
+
+"So, Bessie, you can see the danger of allowing anything like
+this--though it does appear a trifle--to pass by unnoticed. You may go
+and return the apples to Mrs. S., who is now in the orchard."
+
+The lesson was severe and lasting; and as Bessie returned the apples to
+their rightful owner, it settled deep into her heart.
+
+Parents, beware. Through neglect, the habit of lying begins. An untruth
+is passed over carelessly and the child allowed to cover up its sins
+without realizing their sinfulness. Likewise, many other evil habits
+that have wrecked lives and brought sorrow and disgrace into homes may
+be traced to the same carelessness on the part of parents and friends.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+
+A WISE DECISION.
+
+The lake in front of the Worthington home, though nearly five miles in
+length, had too small a harbor to permit the entrance of the large
+Chicago boats. It was therefore necessary, each evening in summer, for
+small steamboats to gather up the fruit from the farms along the lake
+and to carry it to the nearest port for large steamers. It was
+interesting to see the piles of berry crates loaded upon the steamer
+from the docks extending out into the lake. At such times a crowd of
+young people frequently arranged to go for a pleasant ride on Lake
+Michigan, and a few times Bessie had gone.
+
+There was to be such an excursion on the occasion of which I wish to
+speak, and the young people expected to attend a circus in a city close
+to the haven to which they were going. Bessie wished very much to go.
+She soon obtained her father's consent, but went to her mother with many
+misgivings, for she knew that her mother never went to a circus and that
+she had always spoken against her going at other times.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was very busy, but she always had time to advise her
+daughter and to hear her requests. She listened carefully to every word
+her daughter had to say, and then remained silent for a few minutes. At
+length she said: "Bessie, there are many things to consider about your
+going. You know how I love to have you go for a ride on the water when I
+know you are in good company. I also love to have you attend places of
+interest to you, when I know there's nothing to defile your mind or lead
+you from the path of purity. But, Daughter, there are many things in the
+world that look beautiful to the eye but tend to lead the soul astray.
+Do you think Jesus would go to a circus? Do you think you could get any
+good should you go? You have passed your tenth birthday. I think you're
+old enough to take this matter to God in prayer and let him decide it
+for you. Go and ask him to direct you to some passage of Scripture that
+will open your understanding and help you to know what he wants you to
+do."
+
+"Oh, mama," said Bessie, who had felt strange about the matter, "please
+tell me yes or no, and I'll say no more about it."
+
+"No, Bessie; it will, in many ways, be better for you to do as I've
+said," answered her mother tenderly but decisively.
+
+Very reluctantly Bessie left the room, and, taking her Bible, whispered
+a prayer that she might open it to something that would help her to
+decide. As she opened the book, her eyes fell upon these words: "Vanity
+of vanities, saith the preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity."
+Hurriedly she turned the pages, thinking that she might perhaps have
+opened to that passage anyway. Next she read, "I said in mine heart, Go
+to now, I will prove thee with mirth; therefore, enjoy pleasure: and
+behold this also is vanity." Returning to her mother, she read the
+words, but ended by saying, "I might have turned to that anyway."
+
+"Bessie," said Mrs. Worthington, "those words were written by the wisest
+man the world has ever known, one who had the privilege of enjoying
+every known pleasure under the sun. But when he had tried them all, he
+sat down and wrote the words you have just read, and also said, 'All is
+vanity and vexation of spirit.' Now you have my view of the subject, and
+you have Solomon's; but if you are still in doubt, go and pray."
+
+Bessie was not satisfied. She slipped away the second time and fell upon
+her knees. She cried, "O Lord, you once answered Gideon with a sign; now
+please give me a sign and help me to know whether I should stay at home
+or not. If you don't want me to go, make it rain." Though simple and
+short, the prayer came from the heart. She was determined to know God's
+will concerning her; and to such God never turns a deaf ear.
+
+The next morning she went to the door and looked at the sky. The day was
+perfect. The sun was shining brightly, and a cool, gentle breeze was
+blowing. Just one tiny cloud was in the sky, and that seemed to be
+floating toward the sun. As she watched the cloud, she saw it gradually
+increase in size, and at last down came the rain in great drops. Nothing
+further was needed to convince Bessie that God wanted her to remain at
+home; and now her staying was no longer a cross to her.
+
+She ran to her father and explained that God did not want her to go,
+telling him about her prayer and its answer. Her childish words and
+simple faith touched her father's proud heart, but all he said was,
+"It's all right, Bessie; but you'll go down to the landing and say
+good-by to your friends, won't you?"
+
+As she told the girls why she could not go with them and watched the
+gay party leave the shore, she was not sad, but happy. She kept thinking
+how kind the dear Lord had been to answer her prayer so wonderfully.
+When bedtime came, she rested sweetly, having no wounded conscience to
+trouble or accuse her.
+
+But how about the excursion party? They had an ideal trip on Lake
+Michigan, attended the show, and started to return. The breeze that had
+been so gently blowing through the day began to increase at sunset, and
+by the late hour of their return it had become a gale. But not realizing
+the fierceness of the storm, they started home. When they reached their
+own harbor, they found that they could not enter with safety; so they
+anchored the boat and spent the remainder of the night on the wildly
+tossing waves. In the morning the wind gradually died away, and the
+weary, seasick crowd made their way home.
+
+When Bessie learned of their serious experience, she appreciated more
+than ever the Lord's goodness in leading her to stay at home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+
+SELF-CONTROL.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was greatly encouraged when she saw what a blessing her
+little girl had received from what appeared to be a sore trial. She felt
+that the time was opportune to plant the seed of self-control within the
+young heart. In a little while she found an opportunity to begin.
+
+"Bessie," she began when ready for the talk, "I have some important
+things to tell you today. I wish to speak of your future. There comes a
+time in the life of every girl when she must change from childhood to
+womanhood; she can not always remain a child. Until this time arrives,
+she is very dependent and must lean entirely upon her parents' advice;
+but as her mind begins to mature, she should be taught the necessity of
+weighing matters well and of finding out God's will.
+
+"Until the present time all you have done has been at the suggestion of
+your parents, but it will be different in the future. With your
+teaching, you are able to look to God for a part of your direction. I
+shall continue to advise, and, if necessary, to punish you; but I want
+you to take things to the Lord in prayer and become satisfied within
+your heart that my advice is according to the Word of God. You must not
+think you haven't needed the teaching and the guidance you've had thus
+far in life; and you'll need more careful training than you've ever had.
+The point I want to impress upon your mind is that there's an element
+within you, called self, that you must learn to control. At times self
+will arise and cause you to feel that you know some things even better
+than Mama. That is the time to remember that Mama has had more
+experience than you; that her judgment is better than yours; and that
+you must rely upon it until God helps you to see a matter as she sees
+it. That was the way you gained the blessing from that experience a few
+days ago. In this way you will learn the lessons that are so important
+to your future.
+
+"There are many other things, my dear, that I want to talk to you about
+soon, but you must be patient a little longer. In the meantime, however,
+you may ask me any question you please, and I'll answer you. Don't go to
+other girls with these things, but come to me. I'm always glad to
+explain to you anything that seems strange. When you're old enough to
+desire the knowledge and to form the questions, you're old enough to
+receive an answer to your questions. Come to me often: what seems
+strange to both of us we can take to God in prayer, and let him teach
+us.
+
+"Another thing you must do is to turn away from bad associates. Avoid
+girls who say, 'I'll tell you something if you'll promise not to tell
+your mother.' Remember that anything you could not tell me would not be
+worth hearing; for it's sure to be something unclean or vulgar.
+Conversing with such girls won't help you to draw close to the Lord nor
+to know his will concerning you. Much less would it help you to meditate
+upon the pure and holy things of God. To elevate your soul, Bessie, you
+must become serious, and seek only those companions whose conversation
+is kind, gentle, and modest. I believe your desire is to become more
+like Jesus and to prepare for heaven. So, my child, meditate upon God,
+and you will grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ. Misspent moments
+are so much of life and character thrown away; be careful to use them
+all in God's service.
+
+"Here's a little poem you may learn. It may help you to control self and
+to value your moments as you should."
+
+
+MY MOMENTS.
+
+_Oh, my precious little moments,
+  Gliding now so swiftly by;
+May I each one spend for Jesus
+  Ere I see them past me fly.
+
+May I lade each one with something
+  To be borne to God above,
+Fill each full of deeds worth counting,
+  That will prove my perfect love.
+
+For I would not have them enter
+  Through those portals bright and fair
+Bearing not a single token
+  For my Master waiting there.
+
+Golden moments, as you carry
+  Trophies on your upward flight,
+Take my character to Jesus;
+  For I've kept it clean and white._
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+
+PARENTAL CONTROL.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was not only a prayerful mother, but a mother wise in
+home government. Her wisdom, however, came from God. Many a time she
+felt incapable of giving the advice her young daughter needed; but she
+always remembered the scripture which reads, "If any of you lack wisdom,
+let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth
+not; and it shall be given." After she had spent a season in prayerful
+meditation, God would supply the words and understanding. Thus she could
+say with the apostle Paul, that her strength was made perfect in
+weakness, because her dependence was in Christ.
+
+O mothers, let us learn that God, the Author of home and families, is
+always interested in the quality and the training of the children. He
+does not create to cast aside. Neither does anything come by chance. He
+wills that each tender human plant be nourished and cherished until
+well fitted to fill its place and calling in life. In childhood's
+dependent days, the parents should be all to the children that they can
+not be to themselves. It is not enough that your child be well fed and
+clothed; its young mind must be guided into proper channels. What work
+is more noble, more elevating than the teaching of the undeveloped mind?
+Let not the duties of life nor the claims of society so press upon you
+as to cause you to neglect your child's character or its education in
+either temporal or spiritual matters.
+
+As Solomon says, "Take away the little foxes that destroy the vines." It
+is the little things passed carelessly by that grow larger and larger,
+and stronger and stronger, within the young heart until at last the
+unsuspecting parents awake in alarm to behold their child in dreadful
+bondage. Beware! Guard your child every moment it is under your care.
+You can not go as companion to your child upon the street or to school,
+but your influence may attend his every path through life. Do not be
+discouraged should you hear him use a slang word, but take him at once
+and tenderly tell him what slang phrases will lead to. Do not speak
+harshly, but explain in the most loving manner possible. In this way you
+will cultivate in him a distaste for impure language. A pure, refined
+nature will be the result. Moreover, as that child realizes through your
+faithful instruction, the true meaning of sin, he will make you his
+confidant and will come to you rather than seek the counsel of younger
+companions. Thus you will be able to control his mind and to instil
+within his mind pure and upright desires.
+
+Within your home is the place to shine for God. There is no greater
+field of labor. A Christian mother's influence among the young can not
+be too highly valued. No one can fill your place in the hearts of your
+children. Another can provide their temporal needs, but nobody can take
+the place of Mother. No one else can enter into the daily trials as you
+can. Nothing else can soothe the wounded feelings as well as a tender
+embrace or a word from mother. Be liberal, dear mothers, with these
+tokens of sympathy, so sweet to your child; and think not for one moment
+that you are not fulfilling God's plan concerning you or that moments
+thus spent are wasted. It is only a short time at best that we can be
+blessed with the privilege of instructing our children.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+
+CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE.
+
+As Bessie grew older, Mrs. Worthington chose the twilight hour for
+confidential talks with her daughter. Both looked forward to these times
+with pleasure. Each evening after the daily duties were ended, Bessie
+might be found sitting at her mother's feet. Here she related the many
+happenings of the day and in turn received instruction and advice from
+the one who held her confidence. Here the mother taught her child the
+secret of true devotion. She instructed Bessie that prayer, good
+reading, and meditation are the keys to use to unlock God's great
+storehouse of blessings. She pointed to the Bible as a pattern by which
+to fashion one's life, pointing out to her the many scriptures bearing
+upon different subjects and telling her how every modest, earnest
+Christian ought to dress and act in order to adorn the gospel of
+Christ. She encircled the word "purity" with such a halo of glory that
+she awakened within the heart of her child a determination ever to live
+so pure a life that she would not only keep herself stainless but also
+help others to that sacred and elevated plane.
+
+Upon one of these occasions, when Bessie was in her twelfth year, she
+said: "Mama, why don't we go to the meetings that are being held at the
+schoolhouse on Sunday? The girls have asked me several times, and I have
+told them I didn't know. They have a minister from a distance, and he
+has taken the names of all who want to join the church."
+
+"That is a deep subject, my child," said Mrs. Worthington. "I have often
+wished to explain to you my reasons for not attending the public
+services held in our neighborhood by the different denominations, but
+have feared you were still too young to understand, for the matter seems
+hard even for some older persons to comprehend. But I will tell you and
+trust the Lord to make it plain.
+
+"My parents taught me that it was my duty to attend religious services
+at least once a week. This I did, and professed to be a Christian until
+I was a young woman. I knew that I loved the Lord and wanted to do
+right, but found that I could not always do right in my own strength. I
+was daily doing things that displeased the Lord. I became so troubled
+about my condition that one day I went to the minister, and, telling him
+how I felt, requested him to pray for me and to help me to get a real
+Bible experience. In answer to my request, he only smiled and said, 'You
+are too particular. You might as well try to split a hair as to try to
+live a holy life in this world.'
+
+"As I returned home that day, I was very sad indeed. Oh, how much I
+longed to be like Jesus, whom God had given me as an example! I knew the
+Bible taught that if we expect to enter heaven we must live a pure and
+holy life. I was determined to do this--but how was I to do it? To whom
+could I go for help? Most of the church-members were so worldly-minded
+they thought of little else than a good time, and the few spiritual ones
+were afraid to tell how they felt, for fear of their minister's
+displeasure.
+
+"At last I decided to seek from God and his Word what my soul was
+longing for. As I sought, I began to see I had been deceived. I found
+that as God looked upon mankind, he could see only two classes of
+people--the righteous and sinners; and I saw that I was a sinner.
+
+"By reading the twelfth chapter of First Corinthians, I learned that
+Christ's body is the church; that to become a member of the church my
+name must be written in heaven; that every Christian in the world is my
+brother or sister in Christ; the Lamb's book of life is the only
+class-book in which our names need to be recorded; and that our names
+are removed only because of our turning again to sin. To me these
+thoughts were both new and marvelous. I saw that every saved person in
+the different denominations is a Christian and a member of God's true
+church, but I knew that such persons were unable to worship God aright
+for fear of displeasing their ministers or of breaking some of the
+church-rules. And when I read in 2 Cor. 6:14 that we are not to be
+unequally yoked together with unbelievers, I felt that I must come out
+and stand alone. This I promised God to do at any cost, and asked him to
+give me a Bible experience. He answered my prayer; and I was so happy
+that I walked the floor for a long time, clapping my hands and praising
+God.
+
+"Because of the course I had taken many misunderstood me and thought I
+was partially insane. Even your dear papa thinks so still, but I dare
+not grieve God by going back.
+
+"I have had some dreams that have greatly encouraged me. The first was
+given while I was wondering why I could not find any one who believed
+the whole Bible. I seemed to be standing in a meeting-house; the service
+was ended and nearly every one had gone home. I noticed a woman in great
+distress. Going to her, I found that she had a very sore hand and that
+she was alone, with no one to help her home through the darkness. With
+her consent, I quickly picked her up in my arms and carried her safely
+through a long, dark, narrow passage. As we passed along, I spoke words
+of encouragement to her. Suddenly we came out into a large open field
+carpeted with flowers, and there I laid her down, saying, 'How nicely we
+have gotten along alone.' Then I awoke.
+
+"For some time I could not see the meaning of the dream. At last I
+understood that the afflicted woman was I myself and that the Savior
+wanted to carry me through the dark and dangerous way of life alone.
+
+"At another time I dreamed I was riding on a locomotive. Again I was
+alone. The seat that I was sitting on was so small I had to be very
+careful lest I be injured by the machinery around me. I didn't think of
+danger while the train was in motion; but as it drew up at a certain
+station, I began to consider my position. The thought came, 'What will
+people think of me? They will certainly say I am stealing a ride.' I
+remembered my ticket, and, placing my hand upon it, I felt satisfied. At
+the next station I could see inside of the passenger coaches. I had a
+good view of the passengers in one of the coaches, and I recognized the
+prominent members of the denomination I had lately left. As they sat in
+their cushioned seats, carelessly talking to one another, they all
+seemed happy and contented. My own condition then arose before me, and I
+felt lonely indeed and thought, 'I will step down from my little seat
+and enter the coach with the rest.' I was just about to do this--even
+had my hand upon the door knob--when I realized that I had left my
+dress in the little seat, and again I awoke.
+
+"The dream seemed very plain in every way. My ticket was my experience
+and title to heaven, and the dress left up in the tiny seat was the robe
+of Christ's righteousness. While alone and contented, I was all right,
+but to return to the denomination would mean to leave both robe and
+title behind.
+
+"Still, God has given me some devoted Christian friends, who are willing
+to live as the Bible directs, and with these I worship as you know,
+dear, in our little weekly prayer-meetings. I trust that some day your
+father will see and will understand me better, and that we can worship
+God together. But I will be faithful even though I should be forced to
+walk alone.
+
+"Now, dear, I trust you can see that the true church is Christ's body
+and that every soul is a member as long as he continues to live a pure
+and holy life. Whether he is a member of some sect or not, sin will cut
+him off; and if he continues to profess as I did, he is a hypocrite in
+God's sight. 'Come out from among them and be ye separate' is a command
+that every Christian should obey."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+
+THE BEAUTIFUL SECRET.
+
+The mother's talks about her own Christian experience enabled Bessie to
+understand the beautiful secret of salvation--an influence that was to
+beautify her character and to mold her whole subsequent career. Bessie's
+developing mind was able to grasp firmly the golden thread of religious
+truth, which, unraveling from the tangle of sectism, had guided her
+faithful mother into the fulness of divine truth.
+
+Thus it was--
+
+    _In the gentle hush of evening,
+      When the sun sank in the west;
+    When the little bird was nestling
+      In its quiet, sheltered nest;
+    When the stars were brightly shining
+      From the lofty sky above,
+    Bessie learned the lovely secret
+      Of her Savior's perfect love._
+
+    _In the twilight's deep'ning shadows,
+      At her loving mother's feet,
+    Sat she often on a hassock,
+      Hearing words of counsel sweet.
+    Sacred season was this hour
+      To the twain in waiting there,
+    Each the burden of the other
+      Sought to know and ofttimes share.
+
+    As the loving mother listened
+      To the record of the day,
+    To the questions of her daughter--
+      Spoken oft in childish way,
+    She in tenderness instructed
+      With the wisdom of the Lord,
+    Gained by prayer and careful study
+      Of his precious, holy Word.
+
+    There the character was strengthened;
+      Bessie's heart was made to feel
+    Greater love for her Creator,
+      For his work a deeper zeal.
+    And she saw God's plan for pardon,
+      To the feet of Jesus came,
+    And was able, like her mother,
+      Full salvation then to claim._
+
+    _Ah! fond mother, learn the secret
+      That will win thy children dear;
+    Draw them gently to thy bosom,
+      Ever seek their hearts to cheer.
+    From thy home exclude all worry,
+      Fretful cares, and sad'ning gloom;
+    But God's sunshine bid a welcome,
+      Let it shine in ev'ry room_.
+
+    _As a spring within a desert,
+      Thou mayst water each plant small;
+    But the plant itself must blossom--
+      Thou canst tend it, that is all.
+    Tiny human plants will flourish
+      In an atmosphere like this,
+    And will yield good, fruitful blossoms
+      That will bring true happiness_.
+
+    _Children always thirst for knowledge,
+      And ere long 'tis surely gained;
+    If not from a faithful mother,
+      'Tis from evil source obtained.
+    Blameless never is the mother
+      Who will not the trouble take
+    To instruct her precious children,
+      Close companions of them make_.
+
+    _Like a florist wise and zealous,
+      Guard thou well each blossom fair,
+    Lest the perfume and the sweetness
+      Vanish for the lack of care.
+    Choose thou then some place at even
+      When the daily toils are done,
+    Where life's many cares and blessings
+      May be numbered one by one.
+
+    God will give thee wisdom, mother,
+      To supply thine ev'ry need,
+    As thou givest wholesome knowledge,
+      When the childish voices plead.
+    Their young minds, so pure, unfolding,
+      Will reveal the secret fair
+    That will prove how great the value
+      Of a mother's love and pray'r._
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+
+BLESSING AND TRIAL.
+
+Now that Bessie had learned the secret of a Christian life, she longed
+to see others enjoying the love of God. She felt the greatest burden for
+her father. Oh, if she could see him enjoying salvation! She often
+poured out her desire in prayer, with childlike trust and confidence.
+God heard her prayers.
+
+One morning as she was passing the barn on her way to school, she heard
+some strange sounds. Peering through a window, she beheld a sight that
+made her wonder if she saw aright. There stood her beloved father, great
+tears streaming from his eyes, his countenance beaming with heavenly
+peace and joy, and praises to God pouring from his lips. What did it
+mean? In a weak voice she said, "Papa dear, what is the matter!"
+
+Turning he exclaimed: "Oh, Bessie, God has saved me! I am so happy! Run
+quick and tell your mother!" Bessie ran to the house to tell the glad
+news, but her father was there nearly as soon, saying, "Oh, I'm saved!
+You're right, wife. I know now that you're right, and I see things just
+as you do! I'm so happy and feel so different. Oh, help me to praise the
+dear Lord."
+
+Let us leave them in their happiness and follow Bessie to school. Her
+father's words rang as sweet music in her ears. How good the dear Lord
+was to answer her in her father's behalf! She felt that no good thing
+would be withheld from them that walk uprightly. But Bessie was soon to
+meet a severe and unexpected trial.
+
+Her mother had made her a school-dress. Though neat and pretty, it was
+of a material commonly used for men's shirts. Bessie knew this, but
+thought nothing of it until some of her schoolmates gathered round her
+at recess and said, "O girls, Bessie has a new dress like her father's
+shirt." Another said, "Perhaps it is his shirt." The remarks were
+certainly unkind, and Bessie felt them keenly; but she laughed and said,
+"Yes; I know it." Nothing more was said. But oh, that dress! How she
+disliked to wear it! At times she could hardly start to school with it
+on; but then she would think, "I know Mama thought it was pretty when
+she got it for me; and I thought it was nice until the girls made those
+remarks. I will try to like it for Mama's sake."
+
+With such thoughts in her mind she returned home from school one
+evening. When she reached the house, she saw that no one was at home;
+but, knowing where the key was kept, she easily gained admittance.
+Finding herself alone in the house, she thought: "Now is the time to
+learn to like my dress, and I'm going to do it. Mother shall not know
+how I have felt about it." She hastened into the parlor and stood before
+a large mirror.
+
+Now, Bessie knew that she did not have a pretty face, and she had gained
+the victory over that; but she did want to feel that her clothes looked
+well on her, and that was the battle she meant to fight that evening. As
+she slowly turned from side to side viewing herself intently, she liked
+the dress better and better. At last she thought it very pretty and
+becoming, and she knelt down and thanked God for giving it to her. As
+she changed it for her work-dress, she wondered why she had allowed the
+children's remarks to affect her so much and had not appreciated the
+dress more. No more remarks were ever made about the dress, and Bessie
+continued to admire it until it was worn out. No one but herself and the
+Lord knew of the struggle through which she passed.
+
+Through the trial concerning the dress, Bessie learned several valuable
+lessons: first, the less notice one takes of unkindness, the better;
+second, God's grace can keep in time of temptation; third, one should
+not murmur because of persecution; and, last, and best of all, God
+usually gives his children some great blessing before a severe trial,
+and the close relationship between the two makes them almost one in
+effect. She could now say with real appreciation:
+
+    _A little trial often tries,
+    But proves a blessing in disguise.
+    Just as the rough rock holds the gem,
+    The trial holds my diadem_.
+
+But a still greater trial was awaiting her. Bessie had a thirst for
+knowledge. She was doing well in school and wanted to do better. Instead
+of taking exercise during the daily intermissions, she often spent them
+in hard study. Her system, naturally frail, could not stand the strain.
+She contracted a fever and for three months despaired of life. In the
+third month dropsy of the chest set in; and, on account of smothering
+spells, she had to be bolstered up in bed with pillows.
+
+One day as Mrs. Worthington stood beside her child she felt that God
+wanted to heal her. Kneeling beside the bed, she prayed, "Dear Lord,
+heal my child, and grant that she may be spared to work for thee." From
+that time Bessie began to improve. She had no more smothering spells,
+and before long she was well and strong.
+
+Bessie found a blessing even in this trial. She saw that, had she been
+able to push ahead as she had desired, she might have lost sight of
+Jesus, and she now understood that her Savior cared for her body as well
+as for her soul.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+
+THE SURPRISE PARTY.
+
+As soon as Bessie was strong enough to go out, she was invited to stay
+all night with a friend. She supposed she was to be the only guest, but
+found that a surprise had been planned for her. A goodly number of her
+friends and schoolmates were present.
+
+The young folks spent a few hours very pleasantly in playing games, and
+Bessie enjoyed that part of the evening very much. But late in the
+evening some one proposed dancing, and the boys began to choose their
+partners. A very strange feeling came over Bessie when some one asked
+her to dance. She shook her head and said, "No; I do not know how to
+dance." Several urged her to try, but she said, "No; I would rather
+not."
+
+She was the only one that did not dance. As she sat watching the others,
+she wondered if it were right for boys and girls to act as these were
+acting. She had never heard that it is wrong to dance, but it did not
+look or seem right to her. She decided that on reaching home she would
+ask her mother.
+
+When Bessie got home the next morning, her mother asked, "Well, dear,
+did you have a good time?"
+
+"Oh, yes," answered Bessie; "most of the time I did." Then she told
+about the surprise party and about all that had happened, and concluded
+by asking, "Mama, is it right to dance?"
+
+"I have been thinking for a long time, Bessie, that I ought to have a
+talk with you about dancing and tell you of some of the evils to which
+it leads," answered her mother. "Dancing is an amusement that many girls
+consider very attractive. When asked why they think so, they hardly know
+what to answer, but generally speak of the music and the graceful
+motions."
+
+"Oh, Mama, the motions they made at the party last night were anything
+but graceful. I know you wouldn't have allowed me to do as they did,
+and I don't want to. It wasn't modest. I never want to go to a dance
+again."
+
+"I'm so glad, Bessie, you feel as you do about dancing; but, dear, to
+those who learn, there is something very fascinating about it. Some
+girls have said they would rather dance than eat; and, with a great
+many, I believe it is true.
+
+"Men of low character and of evil inclinations regard the dance-hall as
+a favorable place to betray unsuspecting girls and frequent it for that
+very purpose. Their victims are usually the sweetest and most trusting
+girls. Their beauty attracts undesirable attention, and their ignorance
+makes them an easy prey. O Bessie, there are so many unprincipled men in
+the world who love to win and betray the confidence of young innocent
+girls.
+
+"Philosophers tell us that 'perfect happiness comes only from a pleasure
+attractive to our moral nature in its purity and perfection. If we
+delight in pleasures of the other sort, our moral natures are degraded.'
+
+"You have noticed the immodest positions taken by those who dance, and
+you feel a deep sense of shame for them. Should you try to partake of
+their pleasure, your moral nature would be degraded, and you would in
+time lose that sense of shame and be as eager for the pleasure as any of
+the others. Thus yielding, one step at a time, you would cease to look
+upon the dance as immodest and would find real enjoyment in it, and
+perhaps would be led into greater sin. It is in this way that many girls
+lose their virtue. Then they are shunned by their old associates, who
+are really but a step higher in morality. Forsaken by friends, hopeless
+as to their future, deserted even by those who wrought their downfall,
+these poor girls sink lower and lower, and lead lives of shame and
+misery.
+
+"No spiritual-minded person will take part in worldly amusements, for he
+can not enjoy them. Christians who indulge in dancing turn away from
+God and seek fellowship with the world. Such are sure to lose the grace
+of God from their hearts."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+
+LEROY'S HEALING.
+
+Bessie's little brother, Leroy, now past five years of age, was far from
+being rugged. Though he had a full, round face and a large head, his
+body was emaciated and did not develop properly. He could go only a few
+steps without falling. He had fainting spells, which gradually increased
+in frequency and duration.
+
+Many times as Mrs. Worthington looked at her poor little boy, she lifted
+her heart to God in earnest prayer to know his will concerning the
+child. Many friends remarked that she would never be able to bring him
+up; but she knew that, if for the best, God could heal the child and
+give him right development.
+
+At last his illness became very serious. One night his head was burning
+with fever, while his body was cold and clammy. It seemed but a question
+of time until he would pass away.
+
+As Mrs. Worthington looked at her child, she remembered the words,
+"Man's extremity is God's opportunity," and "The prayer of faith shall
+save the sick." She wondered why God had brought them to her mind. She
+began to ask herself: "Do I believe that God can heal that child? If it
+is God's will to take him, can I submit?" To the first question she
+answered, "Yes; God made him," and to the second, "Thy will be done, O
+God." Then she breathed an earnest prayer for his healing. The sweet
+assurance came that her prayer was answered; that the child would grow
+well and strong. She felt that she could lie down by his side and trust
+him in the hands of the One who gave him.
+
+She placed a wet cloth on his head, lay down by his side, and knew no
+more until the next morning. Both slept soundly. When she awoke, she
+saw that the child was breathing naturally and that the fever was
+entirely gone. Then she fully realized that God had healed him. With a
+grateful heart she thanked the Lord for his tender love. It was indeed
+true that Leroy was well. About ten o'clock his mother carried him to
+the lake and, having Bessie to row the boat, gave him a pleasant
+boat-ride. The fever never returned; his head stopped growing; and he
+became a strong, healthy boy. The friends who had thought that he would
+surely die said they could not understand the change that had taken
+place, but Mrs. Worthington understood, and gave God all the praise.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+
+EXPLAINING THE DIVINE LIFE.
+
+After Bessie's conversion Mrs. Worthington's talks to her were often on
+the subject of the divine life within--how to care for it and nourish
+it, so that it might not die nor become blighted. She sometimes compared
+the young Christian's experience to that of a new-born babe. "You know,"
+said she, "the little one must be carefully fed, and tenderly guarded
+against everything harmful. Even a slight breeze blowing upon its little
+body, if unprotected, might result in death. But as the child grows
+older and stronger, it gradually becomes accustomed to the rude elements
+about it and can, with comparative safety, be brought in contact with
+them. The Christ life, new-born in the human heart, is just as sensitive
+and needs the same tender care. Guard it carefully, Bessie. It must be
+constantly nourished by prayer and the Word of God. Seek to become
+established by the grace of sanctification; then you will be better
+able to meet temptation and persecution. Christ is your shepherd, and he
+wants to lead you, his lamb, into green pastures and beside still
+waters.
+
+"A person may profess to be a Christian, Bessie; but unless he has a
+change of heart and affections, he is what the Bible terms a wolf in
+sheep's clothing, and not one of the gentle lambs of the Savior's fold.
+The profession does not amount to anything when the heart is full of
+envy, hatred, jealousy, love of self, and a drawing toward the world. A
+person with a profession only, may appear for a time to be quite
+lamb-like; but sooner or later the old nature will manifest itself, for
+it can not be hidden long."
+
+"I think, Mama," said Bessie, "I understand you--but you spoke of the
+experience of sanctification; please tell me what that means."
+
+As briefly as possible, the mother explained that the second cleansing
+of the heart takes away that evil nature which causes man to want to
+disobey God.
+
+Not long after this talk Bessie had an experience in school that helped
+her to comprehend her mother's words. To be put back in her studies was
+hard, but to have to give up her old teacher, to whom she was strongly
+attached, was harder still. Her regret on the latter account, however,
+was of short duration; for her new teacher was even more lovable than
+the old one, and, best of all, she was a Christian. She and Bessie not
+only got along well, but became warm friends and enjoyed sweet
+fellowship in the Spirit. One day, however, something happened that
+severely tested their love, but, in the end, only deepened it.
+
+Bessie's seatmate, a girl named Nora, about Bessie's own age, was very
+mischievous. She did so many things deserving punishment that the
+teacher was often perplexed to know what course to take with her. Some
+one has said that "misery likes company." This was certainly true of
+Nora. She knew that the teacher and Bessie were good friends, and she
+longed to see Bessie get into trouble and receive some punishment.
+Knowing that Bessie tried hard to obey the rules of the school, Nora saw
+that she should have to lay some cunning plan or she should not realize
+her wish. She began to watch for an opportunity.
+
+A streamlet ran past the schoolhouse. While Bessie and Nora were playing
+near it one day, Bessie fell down in some mud. Just as she fell, the
+school-bell rang and they had to hurry back to their lessons. Fearing
+that some of the mud might have splattered on her face, Bessie asked if
+her face was clean. Nora answered quickly, "Oh yes; do hurry up." Nora
+felt that her chance had come, and she made up her mind to get her
+seatmate into trouble, if possible. Hurrying into the schoolroom, she
+whispered to one of the boys, telling him to ask Bessie as she passed
+what was the matter with her face, but to say nothing more. When Bessie
+came down the aisle, she saw this boy looking at her with an amused
+expression, and gave him close attention. As she passed him, he
+whispered, "Bessie, what is the matter with your face?" and then turned
+quickly away. Fully convinced that her face was dirty, Bessie sat down
+very much ashamed. Nora knew how her seatmate would feel and prepared
+herself for the question that she was sure would be asked. As it was
+time for the writing-lesson, she stuck her finger in inks of different
+colors; and, when Bessie asked where her face was dirty, she quickly
+pointed out the places, each time leaving a large spot of ink. Bessie,
+wholly unconscious of the ink-spots on her face, thought what a dreadful
+sight she must be, and asked permission of the teacher to wash. When the
+teacher turned, she saw, not mud, but ugly ink-spots. Supposing that
+Bessie had put them there, she shook her head. Her surprise was great.
+She felt that she ought to do something about it; but, being undecided,
+she turned away.
+
+Bessie became much worried; for many eyes were turned upon her, and some
+of the pupils were laughing. She wanted to hide, but could not, and kept
+wondering why a little mud should cause so much amusement. One girl,
+Anna, tried secretly to pass her a wet handkerchief, but this Nora
+quickly caught from her and hid. Poor Bessie was now ready to cry, and
+again asked permission to wash her face; but her teacher answered, "No;
+you must go to writing."
+
+Bessie naturally had a high temper and was inclined to be stubborn when
+she felt that she was being imposed upon; but she had always held her
+temper in subjection, as she knew it to be wrong to give way to anger.
+On this occasion, however, it seemed impossible to control herself. When
+the teacher said, "Go to writing," Bessie obeyed; but she was so angry
+that she hardly knew what she was doing. Suddenly she thought, "If I
+daub a lot of ink on my face, perhaps she will let me wash"; and she
+rubbed some on with her finger. But alas! this did not work as she had
+expected. The teacher saw her put it on and concluded that she had put
+the other on also; so she said, "Bessie, you may go and sit in my
+chair." As she said this, all the stubbornness in Bessie's nature arose.
+She did not move; and when the teacher said sternly, "Are you going to
+obey?" she shook her head and caught hold of the seat. At this moment
+Nora whispered, "If that were me, she'd make me go." The teacher heard
+the words and looked first at Nora and then at Bessie. She hesitated for
+a moment, then walked over to Bessie, took her by the shoulders and
+jerked her from the seat, and then dragged her up to the chair and set
+her down, telling her to study. "I have no book," retorted Bessie. The
+teacher ordered one brought, and, leaving her, went to her other duties.
+
+What a moment for Bessie! Too angry to study, she sat there thinking of
+the dreadful scene she had created. Her heart burned with shame. Oh!
+what could she do?
+
+Anna, the girl who had tried to hand her the wet handkerchief, had
+noticed all of Nora's actions and had determined to help Bessie, if
+possible. On pretext of looking up a word in the dictionary, Anna went
+forward, laid a wet rag where Bessie could reach it, and returned to her
+seat. Bessie eagerly took the rag and rubbed her face. She was surprised
+to see the different colors of ink appear upon it. How they came to be
+there she did not know; but she did not think about them long, for
+something far worse began to trouble her. She knew that she had lost the
+grace of God out of her heart. Oh, how wretched she felt! Would God
+forgive her again? Yes; she knew he would; for she had read that, "The
+Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart, and saveth such as be
+of a contrite spirit." This thought was a great comfort to her. But, oh!
+what about her teacher? How could her teacher ever love and respect her
+again? She would ask her pardon as soon as possible, but would she
+forgive her?
+
+It was not long until the teacher went to her desk for something, but
+she took no notice of Bessie. Beaching out very timidly, Bessie touched
+her and said, "O Miss Harrington, won't you please forgive me?" But the
+teacher pretended not to hear her, and turned quickly away. The next
+thought was, "What will Mama think and say? Oh, if only she did not have
+to know about it!" With these thoughts coursing through her mind, Bessie
+was unable to study; and by the time school closed, she was in great
+distress.
+
+After closing the school, the teacher paid no attention to Bessie for
+some time; but when she had finished her evening duties and all the
+pupils except Nora, Anna, and Bessie had left the building, she turned
+to Bessie, fell upon her knees, and threw both arms around her. Bessie
+sobbed, "Oh, please forgive me! please forgive me!" For some time the
+teacher made no reply, and Nora muttered, "Catch me asking her
+forgiveness!" At last the teacher, looking up through tearful eyes,
+said, "Bessie dear, it is you who must forgive me. I should have been a
+better example to you this afternoon. Let us pray." Then two sad hearts
+were lifted to God in humble, earnest prayer that he would forgive them
+for Jesus' sake. God heard their prayers, gave back the sweet peace that
+they had lost out of their souls, and bound their hearts together in
+Christian love and fellowship.
+
+Nora went her way, provoked with her seatmate and angry because the joke
+had not worked quite as she had expected. Anna, slipping her arm through
+Bessie's walked home with her and told her all that Nora had done.
+Bessie was surprised. She understood why things had taken the course
+they had; but, knowing it was really Satan, who had been trying to
+overthrow her own soul, she did not censure her seatmate.
+
+Her only thought now was of how sad her mother would feel. Bessie
+decided that the occurrence was too dreadful to tell her about and that
+she would keep it a secret. This was her decision until she saw her
+mother coming down the walk to meet her. Having always told her mother
+everything, Bessie did not know how it would seem to keep a secret from
+her; so when they met, she forgot all about her decision and began at
+once to tell her mother all that had happened.
+
+Mrs. Worthington listened very carefully to Bessie's story and then
+said: "Bessie, I am so glad you have told me all this yourself, and have
+held nothing back nor blamed Nora. God will take care of the matter, and
+I believe that your lesson is a lasting one. And now, my child; you can
+see your great need of sanctification. Had that ugliness and
+stubbornness been taken out of your heart, you would have been spared
+much suffering. I trust that you will earnestly seek and obtain this
+grace."
+
+It was well that Bessie told her mother everything, for Nora did all in
+her power to circulate the story and to make it as bad as possible.
+Nora's mother, thinking it best to tell Mrs. Worthington about Bessie's
+misbehavior, made a special call at the Worthington home for that
+purpose. Bessie's mother listened to what her neighbor's story was and
+then smilingly replied, "Yes, I know all about it; Bessie told me before
+she reached home. I am so glad that I have the confidence of my child.
+We are companions; I love her company, and she loves mine." These words
+sounded strange to the visitor. She could not understand. "It seems
+strange," said she, "that Bessie loves to stay at home and to be with
+you so much. Doesn't she ever get lonesome? Nora is restless and tired
+when she has to stay at home, and says I am too old for her."
+
+Ah! here was the secret of the difference between the two girls. One
+mother had allowed her daughter to choose her own company and had not
+inquired into their plays and talks; whereas the other knew the secrets
+of her child's heart and could advise and instruct her in any matter.
+Between Bessie and her mother there was a tie of which Nora and her
+mother knew nothing. "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when
+he is old he will not depart from it." Prov. 22:6.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+
+TEMPTATIONS.
+
+At Christmas time Bessie received the following letter from one of her
+friends:
+
+     Dear Bessie:
+
+     I have long wondered what to send you as a Christmas gift,
+     and it seemed a hard problem to solve. I fear you will
+     wonder at what I am sending; but, knowing that you are
+     nearly thirteen years old and must be growing very fast, I
+     have decided to send you a corset. I hope you will like and
+     appreciate it enough to wear it.
+
+     Lovingly your friend,
+
+     Lizzie.
+
+On receiving the package, Bessie looked at the corset and said, "Mama,
+shall I wear it?"
+
+Mrs. Worthington looked anxiously at her daughter; for she knew that
+Bessie would have strong temptations along this line, as she did not
+have a pretty form, and was growing rapidly. She had hoped, however,
+that the subject would not be mentioned for some time. Silently she
+breathed a little prayer for wisdom to answer the question, and then
+said:
+
+"Bessie, God used great wisdom in forming your body. He knew just what
+shape it would have to be in order to perform its natural functions. Do
+you think it would be proper to try to change it? Do you wonder why
+something snug around your waist could be harmful? Listen, dear, and I
+will tell you. Let us take the corset and examine it. It certainly looks
+very innocent and pretty, but just see how stiff it is. These steel ribs
+and this whalebone make it more like a piece of harness than anything
+else I can think of. When worn about the waist, it produces pressure
+upon the vital organs and thus deforms the body. These long strings at
+the back are often drawn so tightly as to cause the misplacement and
+derangement of those organs whose functions are most necessary to health
+and happiness. As a consequence, many a woman has to suffer long years
+of torture.
+
+"Many women say they don't wear the corset tight, and think, therefore,
+that no harm results; but, let one of them put a snug-fitting bandage on
+any other part of the body, and she will see how quickly the muscles of
+that part will weaken and decrease in size. Should a young woman who has
+never worn a corset attempt to wear one about her waist as loosely as
+they are ever worn, she would, if honest with herself, cast it aside as
+an abominable thing.
+
+"The reason why Lizzie wants you to begin wearing a corset while you're
+young is that, if you'll bind your waist before you've reached your full
+growth, your waist will never attain the size it would have attained
+under natural conditions. In other words, you would be deformed."
+
+"I don't think I shall ever wear it, Mama, if that's the effect it has
+upon the body. If God takes such particular care of us that he numbers
+our very hairs, he must be very much grieved to see any one put a corset
+about her waist."
+
+"I'm glad for your decision, my child, but you'll soon meet greater
+temptations. Some mothers don't think it worth while to warn their girls
+of the dangers that threaten them in regard to love and marriage; but I
+want to see you, Bessie, fully prepared, so that you may safely pass
+this dangerous period.
+
+"Most girls at your age have some strange idea regarding love. In the
+schoolroom, perhaps, a girl notices some particular boy who has a
+winning way. At first she simply thinks he is nice; is glad to see him
+promoted, receive honor, etc. Gradually her mind becomes filled with
+queries concerning his opinion of her. She dares not own that she loves
+to appear well in his eyes, but it is true nevertheless. During his
+absence she misses him, and upon his return her heart beats with
+emotion. If he pays her little attentions, she dwells upon them until
+she becomes eager for them. Her playmates notice a change in her, for
+she can no longer hide her feelings. She blushes when mention is made
+of her preference for him. The couple seek to be together as much as
+possible, and are soon meeting together secretly. When reproved, they
+may promise not to let the thing happen again, only to repeat it in a
+short time. The secrecy of these meetings make them more enjoyable, and
+their length and frequency are unconsciously increased.
+
+"Satan, who is never asleep upon such occasions, makes reproof his
+companion to push them forward. Friendly warnings are unheeded; and if
+force be used to prevent the meetings, the couple may think of eloping.
+They may not have thought of marriage until this time; but when the girl
+realizes what she has done, she consents to the hasty marriage. Such
+marriages, Bessie, seldom result happily.
+
+"The place to stop was at the beginning. She should have gained control
+of her wandering affections. Young girls who lavish their love upon boys
+of their own age or older lose relish for other things, and their minds
+become dwarfed and weakened by being taxed with thoughts that are not
+fit for them to consider at so early an age.
+
+"It is all right to form in your mind an ideal for your affections, if
+you don't have in mind some particular person; but your common sense
+should be your guide. Two rowboats passing each other upon the water are
+all right as long as they are far enough apart; but let these boats
+drift or be guided too close together, and there is great danger of a
+collision. Your affections are to you what the rudder is to the boat,
+and reason is your pilot. They will guide you aright if you will let
+them."
+
+"Mama," said Bessie, "there's a girl in our school, only a few months
+older than I, that says she is to be married in a short time. The man
+she's to marry is nearly twice as old as she is, too. We told her that
+she ought to wait until she wore long dresses before she talked about
+getting married. Don't you think that is dreadful?"
+
+"Yes, dear, it is. No girl should ever be married while she is so
+young."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+
+ANSWERS TO PRAYER.
+
+During the summer Bessie's cousin John and a boy friend came to visit
+her. They spent many pleasant hours on the lake. One day while they were
+about two miles from home, a fierce storm arose. They noticed the sky
+growing dark and tried very hard to reach home; but, when still some
+distance from the shore, they could see that instead of making any
+headway they were drifting before the wind.
+
+It was a serious moment. As the great waves dashed up over them, each
+adding to the amount of water in the boat, Bessie looked first at her
+cousin toiling away at the oars, the great drops of perspiration
+coursing down his face, then at their friend nearly wild with terror,
+and then at the western sky. "John," said she to her cousin, "I believe
+that's rain coming toward us." Until then the boy, who was a little
+older than Bessie, had been brave; but as he turned to look, his face
+blanched with terror, and he said, "Bessie, if that is rain, it will
+certainly sink our boat; for, see, it is nearly half full of water now."
+
+The situation was certainly critical, but Bessie felt that it was not
+the time to despair. She remembered that in olden times Jesus had calmed
+the sea. Believing that he could still do the same, she prayed for help
+from heaven. Then, encouraging her cousin to do his best, she, assisted
+by their friend, began to bale out the water as rapidly as they could.
+In a few moments the great drops of rain were dashing down upon them.
+Without speaking, all kept at their work for what seemed to them an
+hour, but which was really but a short time. Suddenly it ceased raining;
+and, looking about them, they saw that the lake was perfectly
+quiet--not a ripple could be seen. With trembling voice Bessie said,
+"John, God must have sent the rain to quiet the water, for I asked him
+to help us." It was a very wet but thankful crowd that reached home that
+night.
+
+In the spring that Bessie was fourteen years old, her father sold the
+beautiful home where she had spent so many happy days, and bought a
+tract of land in a dense wood farther up the lake. On account of the
+dense forest, the place appeared very dismal. As the purchaser of their
+old home wanted possession as soon as possible, Mr. Worthington had time
+to build only a barn before removing his family. In this building they
+lived during the first summer. Though these circumstances were
+discouraging, the Worthingtons tried hard to be brave. By fall a house
+was ready for them.
+
+Many good things were lacking in this new forest home; but God knew
+this, and he put it into the hearts of friends and neighbors to supply
+the family with fruit and vegetables and also chickens. So generously
+were these supplied that there was no lack.
+
+During the winter following much wood was cut, hauled, and piled out
+along the roadside in front of the house; but still there was standing
+timber nearly everywhere one might look, and to the south and west it
+extended for many miles.
+
+The next summer Bessie learned how dangerous an enemy a large forest
+could become. There was so little rain during the hot months that things
+became dry and brittle. One day she heard the cry of "Fire! Fire!"
+Looking away to the southwest, she beheld a sight that made her feel
+faint with fear. The woods were ablaze, and the fire was coming directly
+toward her home.
+
+Her father came to her, explained their danger, told her to warn her
+mother and then to do all she could to put out any sparks that might
+fall around the woodpiles, house, or barn. This said, he hastened to
+join the men in their desperate battle with the fire. When Bessie
+entered the house, she saw her mother weeping over her little baby, who
+had been born during the winter months and who had known nothing but
+sickness and suffering. When Mrs. Worthington heard the news, she
+continued to weep, and said, "Well, dear, do all you can to put out the
+sparks; for I think your little brother is dying, and I can not leave
+him."
+
+By much hard work, the fire was held in check until evening. Bessie made
+her rounds with a pail of water and a dipper until her eyes became so
+painful on account of the smoke and heat that she was forced to lie down
+on the ground until they quit hurting. As soon as possible, however, she
+returned to her task, informing her mother frequently of the progress of
+the fire.
+
+At last word came that nothing more could be done; that the house could
+not be saved. Seeing that further effort was useless and that each
+moment increased the danger of their own lives, the men left off
+fighting the fire, in order to save themselves and to help, if possible,
+the Worthington family. They soon reached the house. The next question
+was, where to go. The lake seemed to be the nearest place of safety.
+Confusion was everywhere, but through it all Mrs. Worthington sat
+quietly holding her dying baby.
+
+"O Mama," said Bessie, "aren't you going with the rest?"
+
+"No," answered her mother positively; "I shall remain right here with my
+dying child. I can not move him now and add to his suffering. I know
+that God can take care of me here as well as anywhere else. Why, Bessie,
+where is your faith? God can yet send rain and put out the fire."
+
+"Oh! but if God doesn't send rain, you will burn up; for the fire is
+almost here," cried Bessie. "Do come as far from the house as you can,
+won't you?"
+
+"No, Bessie, I told you, no. I shall sit just where I am," answered Mrs.
+Worthington; and Bessie knew that it would be useless to press the
+matter further.
+
+With throbbing heart Bessie ran to her room, which was already getting
+hot from the fire: she fell upon her knees by the window where she could
+see the flames leaping from tree to tree, and began to call mightily
+upon God. "O God!" she prayed, "do send rain or change the wind." After
+repeating this prayer several times, she noticed some large drops of
+water upon the window pane. She knew what it meant: once before God had
+sent rain to help her in time of danger. Hastening down stairs, she
+said, "Mama, it's raining." "Thank God!" said Mrs. Worthington, "I knew
+he wouldn't let baby and me burn up."
+
+By that time the rain was pouring down; the wind had ceased; and the
+danger was over. The rain did not put out the fire, but so checked it
+that, by hard work, it could be kept under control until it died out.
+
+Little Clement lived only a short time after the fire; but just before
+he died, he looked into his weeping mother's face and smiled three
+times. As he had never smiled before, Mrs. Worthington always thought
+that God took that way to encourage her heart.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+
+LOST IN THE WOODS.
+
+As Leroy was too young to drive the cows home in the evening, Bessie
+enjoyed many a long walk in search of them. One evening she had some
+difficulty in finding them. It was one of those evenings when everything
+is quiet and sound travels a long distance. After listening carefully
+for the tinkling of the cow-bells, Bessie was bewildered, for she could
+seemingly hear them in every direction. At last, thinking she had
+located the sound, she set out in that direction. When she had walked
+about two miles, she stopped to listen again. The bells were still
+tinkling, but they seemed to be just as far away. She knew, though, that
+the cows sometimes went a long distance. She had been following the
+road, but thinking the sound came from the woods, she started off in
+that direction. She saw that the sun was just going down behind the
+trees; that she was on an unfamiliar path, and was getting farther and
+farther from home. But she must get the cows, and on she went, stopping
+now and then to locate the sound of the bells.
+
+She suddenly found herself standing upon a point of land where a deep,
+wide ravine extended on either side. The distance across the ravine she
+could not see on account of the shadow and the trees. What should she
+do? A few minutes previously she had thought about its being late, but
+had hoped to find the cows and to make them guide her home. This hope
+failing, she did not know what to do. The bells were still tinkling
+ahead of her; but she did not dare to try to cross the ravine in the
+darkness, now fast gathering around her, and how could she return
+through those dense woods! She thought of calling for help, but as
+quickly realized how useless the effort would be, since there were no
+houses near.
+
+As she stood wondering what to do, these words from a psalm she had
+committed to memory a short time before, came to her mind: "If I say,
+Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about
+me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the
+day; the darkness and the light are both alike to thee." Two more
+precious promises came to her mind: "I will guide thee with mine eye"
+and "He leadeth me beside still waters." Oh, what encouragement those
+words were to Bessie! Surely God would guide her home. With a thankful
+heart, Bessie started to return. As she had passed through several
+clearings in her search for the cows, she had no little difficulty in
+finding her way; but the moon rose early and gave her considerable
+light, and as she neared home, she began to recognize some familiar
+objects.
+
+But, in the meantime, how were her parents feeling? The cows returned
+early and were milked. Mrs. Worthington wondered why Bessie did not come
+with them, but thought she might have been delayed and would come soon.
+She prepared supper; but when she got it ready, Bessie was still absent.
+
+"What can be keeping Bessie tonight?" Mrs. Worthington said anxiously to
+her husband. "She should have come home an hour ago."
+
+"Oh, I suppose she has stopped somewhere to play," said Mr. Worthington
+carelessly.
+
+"No; I don't think so," replied his wife. "Bessie always tries to be
+prompt, and I'm afraid something has happened. If she doesn't come soon,
+you had better go to look for her."
+
+"Well, wait until dark," said Mr. Worthington; "and, if she isn't here
+then, I'll get some men and we'll search in different directions. Did
+you notice which way she went!"
+
+"No," answered his wife, "but I think she went east."
+
+At dark Mr. Worthington started out with the searching party. Mrs.
+Worthington tried not to worry; but when nine o'clock passed and
+half-past nine came, she felt a great anxiety creeping into her heart.
+Many times she offered an earnest prayer for Bessie's protection. After
+putting Leroy to bed she stationed herself in front of the house to
+watch.
+
+About ten o'clock some one returned to say that he could find no trace
+of Bessie.
+
+With straining eyes, Mrs. Worthington looked in the direction in which
+Bessie had gone, and at last thought that she could see some one
+approaching. As the figure drew nearer, she could see that it was her
+child, and with a glad cry ran to meet her. "O Bessie," cried the
+mother, "what has happened to detain you? Your father and a company of
+men are out searching the woods for you. Dear child, where have you
+been?"
+
+Bessie was very tired and hungry; but she related all that had happened
+and said: "I'm sorry I couldn't go farther; for I believe the cows were
+just a short distance beyond the point where I turned back. But I did
+not dare to cross the swampy place and go into the woods on the other
+side."
+
+"Why, the cows have been home a long, long time, Bessie; and that is
+what had made your delay seem so strange," said her mother. "But were
+you not afraid, dear, when you found that you were so far from home!"
+
+Bessie explained how she had felt and how the Lord had encouraged her
+and helped her to be brave.
+
+"What time was that?" asked her mother; and when she learned, she said,
+"Bessie, that was when I was so earnestly praying for you. Surely our
+God is a mighty God and one who is ever faithful."
+
+When the searching party returned, they were all glad to know that
+Bessie was safe at home.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+
+NOVEL-READING.
+
+As Bessie approached her sixteenth year, Mrs. Worthington became very
+anxious about her. The mother thought that she could notice a change in
+her daughter's actions and disposition. Instead of being confiding and
+happy, she seemed listless, forgetful, and nervous. At first the mother
+could not understand this change; but by close observation she found
+that her daughter was indulging in light reading.
+
+Some magazines and weekly papers containing continued love-stories had
+found their way into the Worthington home. At first they were not
+attractive to Bessie. She would merely glance through the pages; but she
+gradually came to overlook the good, substantial reading and to enjoy
+the part that stimulated the romantic and imaginative part of her
+nature. The effect upon her mental and moral powers was much the same
+as that produced upon the digestive organs by rich and stimulating
+foods. Her mind was thus weakened and robbed of its relish for wholesome
+reading. She was ever looking forward for something to excite or satisfy
+her abnormal desire for the romantic or the dreadful.
+
+As soon as Mrs. Worthington realized her daughter's danger, she sought
+an opportunity to instruct her on the dangers of novel-reading. "Some
+effects of novel-reading," said she, "are worse even than those produced
+by dancing. Many novels are hurtful because of the many false ideas
+interwoven in the stories. Some novels attract the pure-minded by their
+morality; but it is unsafe to read them, for the reason I have already
+given you, and because, as with any bad habit, the exciting influences
+must be constantly increased. In this way some persons are deceived and
+drawn into many of Satan's snares.
+
+"In most novels there is much that is good and true; but the immoral,
+the worldly, and the untrue are so interwoven with it that the reader
+unconsciously finds himself taking pleasure in thoughts which, before he
+began reading novels, would have been disgusting. In this way the
+reader's sense of right is lowered and an appetite created--an appetite
+that can not be satisfied; the more it is fed, the more depraved and
+exacting it becomes. Gradually the desire for the romantic increases
+until the novel-reader longs to have a romance of her own. Her sense of
+duty is so blunted and her better judgment so blinded that she often
+agrees to a secret marriage with some one who is wholly unfit to be her
+life companion. It is in this way that many a girl has been deceived and
+led into sin. Many times, too, habits have been formed, from which
+nothing but the grace of God could deliver. In looking back over a
+wasted life, many a person can see that his or her downfall had its
+origin in the first novel.
+
+"My dear child, there are many good books that you will find both
+helpful and interesting, but the Bible should be the pattern of your
+life. Let it be the principal food for your mind and soul. Your time all
+belongs to God, and you should waste none of it in reading unwholesome
+literature."
+
+As Mrs. Worthington finished speaking, she was glad to see a changed
+look in Bessie's face. She knew that God was talking to her daughter;
+and as she arose to go, she said: "Bessie, do not forget from whom you
+may expect strength. I am praying that God will entirely take away the
+unnatural appetite which you have been fostering."
+
+It was not long until Bessie rejoiced in full deliverance from her taste
+for novel-reading, and her interest in her mother's talks returned. As
+they read the Bible together and praised God for the precious truths it
+contained, cherishing them within their hearts as priceless treasures,
+Bessie's understanding seemed to open, and she was able to comprehend
+many of the deep truths of God's Word. The reading of God's Word gave
+her such unbounding joy, such complete spiritual happiness, that nothing
+could compare with it. Its truths, so simple and yet so grand, were at
+once a guide and a reproof to keep her feet from straying from the
+narrow way.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+
+GLAD TIDINGS.
+
+In a small house about two miles from Bessie's home lived a very old
+lady. She loved the Lord and enjoyed telling of his goodness and of his
+dealings with her. Bessie, who was now about sixteen years of age,
+enjoyed these talks very much.
+
+One day while Bessie and her mother were visiting this aged saint, she
+brought forth a much-worn paper and handed it to Mrs. Worthington,
+saying, "My daughter sent me this paper. You may take it home, if you
+like," she continued; "but I must ask you to return it, as my daughter
+wants it again." As Mrs. Worthington took the paper, Bessie saw at the
+top of the page, in large letters, "The Gospel Trumpet." After reading a
+few minutes Mrs. Worthington exclaimed: "This paper is certainly the
+work of a people who understand the plan of salvation. Things are fully
+explained here that have been plain to me for years--things that I
+dared not mention publicly lest I be thought fanatical."
+
+On their return home Mrs. Worthington said: "It must have been in answer
+to prayer that Sister Moore let me see that paper. I have prayed for
+many years that God would help me to find a people who were not afraid
+to preach his whole Word. I believe we have found them. Who knows but
+this is God's way of starting a series of meetings here. Oh, the
+wonderful God we serve! I shall subscribe for the paper at once and also
+send my poem on sectism to see if they will publish it." The
+subscription was sent, and the poem soon appeared in the paper.
+
+Mrs. Worthington was truly thankful to find that God had others in the
+world who were willing to teach the whole Bible without construing any
+part to suit their own ideas.
+
+It was not long until a testimony appeared from a minister living a few
+miles away; and, agreeably with Mrs. Worthington's request, a series of
+meetings was started in the neighborhood.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+
+THE MEETINGS.
+
+The news of the good meetings spread rapidly, and the attendance
+constantly increased. The gospel as preached was a new message to the
+people, and yet it was the very same that Jesus and his disciples
+taught. Every point of doctrine presented had a "thus saith the Lord" to
+confirm it.
+
+Many saw that the Bible had been misunderstood and had been misconstrued
+by mankind to prove minor points, while the deep and vital truths had
+been so covered over with prejudice and unbelief that the majority of
+the people were blind to the true meaning of the Word; and that, in
+their confusion, each had gone to the denomination that seemed most
+nearly to correspond to his clouded views. It was also clearly shown
+that there is no way to heaven except the straight and narrow way that
+Jesus taught, and that God's Word is the only true measure of a
+Christian experience.
+
+Mrs. Worthington felt now that her cup of joy was full since she could
+hear the way of salvation and the true church explained from the pulpit
+just as God had revealed them to her. She was also glad that Bessie, who
+was now old enough to understand deep spiritual truths for herself, was
+in perfect harmony and fellowship with her.
+
+About forty souls were saved in the meetings; some gained the experience
+of sanctification; and the Spirit of the Lord worked mightily upon the
+hearts of many others.
+
+Oh, the deep and wonderful love of God! Oh, the richness and fulness of
+his grace! How glorious Bessie now found her walk with God! How
+precious to commune with him and feel that she was growing deeper into
+his love! Truly it was a taste of heaven!
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+
+BESSIE SEES HER DUTY.
+
+Among those converted in the meetings was a girl a little younger than
+Bessie. Her name was Cora. Being an orphan and living in the home of an
+infidel uncle, where she had no one to understand or sympathize with her
+views, she often sought Bessie for counsel and advice. The uncle did not
+oppose his niece, but others in his family did.
+
+As time went on, the two girls became anxious to be doing something for
+the Lord. While they were pondering over the matter, a company of
+ministers came to the place to hold another series of meetings. From
+them the girls learned that _The Gospel Trumpet_ was published by
+consecrated labor, that the workers received no stated salary, but that
+they trusted the Lord for their food and clothing.
+
+It seemed a strange story to the girls, but Cora felt that she should
+like to go and help in the work. Though her uncle was not pleased with
+her plan, yet finally, after he had investigated and had found the place
+respectable, he gave his consent. It was several months, however, before
+she expected to leave. Toward the close of this time Bessie began to
+feel some anxiety for her friend, and one day said to her, "Cora, do you
+really want to go to _The Gospel Trumpet_ office to work? Now, if you
+don't want to go, God will not be pleased with your service." "Bessie, I
+have lost all desire to go," Cora answered. "It seems to me that God is
+calling you instead of me. You could be a much greater help than I,
+because you have known and understood this truth all your life."
+
+If Bessie had received a severe blow, it could not have hurt her more.
+Her precious mother! How could she leave her! Many of her cherished
+hopes for the future arose before me. Her plan, to do all she could for
+her mother in her declining years, came up before her; and as she
+thought of it, she became very sad. When the two girls parted at the
+door, Bessie's heart was very heavy; and when she was at last alone, she
+wept bitterly. She remembered that she had consecrated to do anything
+the Lord might require of her, but she did not see how she could do
+this. For many days Bessie bore this heavy burden; and, not being
+strong, she began to fail in health. From appearances, she had a
+malignant form of quick consumption. The course of the disease was
+rapid, and in a few weeks she was not only confined to her bed, but
+seemingly very near death. Mr. Worthington desired to consult a
+physician, but reluctantly heeded to Bessie's earnest entreaties to let
+her trust the Lord. She said to her father, "I know that God would heal
+me, if for the best; and, if not, I would rather die." And she added
+mentally, "I would rather die than to leave home."
+
+Bessie at last became so low that she could not be left alone night or
+day. As her mother sat beside her one day, holding her hand, she said:
+"I believe, dear, that God wants to heal you and use you for himself. I
+feel like asking our elder, Sister Smith, to come and anoint you with
+oil according to Jas. 5:14, 15. I am sure God will heal you."
+
+Sister Smith was brought as soon as possible; but, to Mrs. Worthington's
+surprise, she did not offer to anoint Bessie until the next day. She
+said: "I can not understand this case. There is something here that
+seems very strange. Bessie appears to be perfectly resigned to die, but
+she only answers yes or no to my questions. I shall talk to her again."
+Returning to the bedside, she said, "My dear, if God heals you, are you
+willing to leave your father, mother, and home to preach the
+gospel"--but she got no farther. Bessie, with all the emphasis she
+could command in her weak state, interrupted, "No; I will never preach."
+
+"Ah! there is the point in your consecration that you have not reached,"
+replied Sister Smith. "You must be willing to do anything that will
+bring the most honor to God's name, and to work where he can get the
+most glory out of your service. It may be the Lord will never require
+you to preach; but he wants the willingness on your part, just as much
+as if he wanted to make a minister of you."
+
+It was some time before Bessie could answer; but when she did, it was to
+say that she would do anything, only that she must know that it was God
+who required it.
+
+"God will make you to know that," said Sister Smith; "and now I feel
+that everything is out of the way, and we can ask God to heal you."
+
+As she applied the oil and called earnestly upon God, there seemed to be
+a heavenly atmosphere filling the room. Bessie felt a soothing
+sensation passing through her body; and when the prayer was ended, she
+felt perfectly well, though exceedingly weak. Her strength soon
+returned, however, and it was not long until the Lord told her plainly
+that he wanted her at _The Gospel Trumpet_ office. She remembered her
+consecration and felt willing in her heart to obey; but she shrank from
+telling her parents. For two weeks she endured severe mental suffering.
+She tried to gain sufficient courage to speak to her mother about the
+call, but her tongue refused to form the words. One day while she and
+her mother were in the cosy sitting-room, Mrs. Worthington said,
+"Bessie, I believe that God wants you at _The Gospel Trumpet_ office and
+that he has used Cora's plan and your sickness to show you your duty."
+Looking up through eyes filled with tears, Bessie related all that God
+had revealed to her. A great calm then came into her soul.
+
+But the test was not entirely over. Mr. Worthington must be told,
+and--would he be willing? Embracing the first opportunity, Bessie told
+him her plans and begged his approval upon them; but his reply nearly
+crushed her.
+
+"Bessie," said her father, "if you must leave us, you may go; but I have
+one thing to say and I mean it. If you go, you can never return; for
+your going is heartless indeed. I can not see why you should choose to
+go from your comfortable home and those who love you so dearly, and
+leave your mother, who so much needs your help."
+
+"Father, Father!" exclaimed Bessie, "Oh, don't talk that way! You know
+how much I love you all. You know I never wanted to leave home before;
+and if you won't let me return, what shall I do?"
+
+As she stood there before her father almost broken-hearted, a sweet
+voice whispered, "I will be with thee; be not afraid." The words sounded
+like music in her soul and reminded her of her recent decision to obey
+the Lord at any cost; and she said quietly:
+
+"Well, Father, if you refuse to let me return home, it will have to be
+that way; but I must obey the Lord, and he has called me into his
+service"
+
+"Very well," he answered, "but remember my words," and he left her.
+
+Seeking her mother, Bessie told her of the interview and of her father's
+refusal to allow her to return home. For a moment they stood looking at
+one another; and then, with great tears filling her eyes, her mother
+said:
+
+"Remember the words of Jesus, 'There is no man that hath left house, or
+parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's
+sake, who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in
+the world to come life everlasting.' Dear, child, I know your dutiful
+nature, and how you long to obey your parents; but the Bible says to
+obey them in the Lord. When you have to choose whom you will serve, God
+or your parents, you must choose the Lord."
+
+"I will obey God," said Bessie quietly; and she began at once to prepare
+to leave home.
+
+When all was ready and the morning of departure had come, Mr.
+Worthington went out to prepare to take his daughter to the train. He
+had been very silent all the morning, but Bessie's heart was so full
+that she had taken little notice of his behavior. Oh, how she longed for
+his consent for her to return! Her mother gave her every encouraging
+word possible. At last they looked out and saw that the horse was ready.
+As Bessie picked up her last bundle, the door opened, and her father,
+stepping in quickly, caught her in his arms. "O my child," he sobbed,
+"will you forgive me and come back as soon as the Lord will let you? I
+didn't mean what I said; but it is so hard to give you up. If you need
+anything, write to me at once and let me know about it, won't you?" and
+he tenderly kissed her. Bessie's heart was filled with joy, and she
+said that he could expect her home just as soon as the Lord would let
+her come.
+
+"Read 1 Cor. 10:13 and Jas. 1:12 just as soon as you have time, dear,"
+whispered Mrs. Worthington in her daughter's ear as she kissed her again
+before she jumped into the buggy beside her father. Then they drove away
+from the home and the mother that were so dear to Bessie's heart.
+
+Very few words were spoken on the way to town, and after a long ride
+Bessie found herself on the train. It all seemed like a terrible dream;
+but there was a sweet peace and quietness in her soul, and her father's
+loving words rang again and again in her ears.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+
+REVERIE.
+
+In the days that followed Bessie's arrival at the _Trumpet_ office, she
+found many ways in which she could help spread the gospel. She found,
+too, that she could preach in a way that was not at all distasteful to
+her; for she could set up many lines of type to be used in printing the
+gospel message in the _Trumpet_, which was carrying light and truth into
+many homes and preaching to hungry souls. But oh, how often she thought
+of the dear ones at home and of how they were missing her!
+
+One evening, when she sought her room and sat down beside the window, as
+she had so often done at home, she began to review her life. As the soft
+shadows gathered slowly about her, she seemed to be at home again close
+beside her mother's knee, listening to her tender, loving words of
+sympathy and advice. Bessie could now see what they had been worth to
+her. They not only had prepared her for a common sphere in life, but had
+given her a thorough understanding of God's great plan of salvation. As
+she recalled her mother's prayers and talks, she realized that, through
+them, she had many times escaped what other girls had ignorantly
+blundered into, and had been spared a great many of the bitter sorrows
+that come into the lives of girls not taught at their mother's knee. In
+her thankfulness, she offered a fervent prayer to her heavenly Father
+that many more earnest, noble, and prayerful mothers might be found to
+guide their children through the critical period of childhood.
+
+After three months Bessie returned home for a short visit with her
+parents. Upon her arrival she not only found a loving and tender
+welcome, but also learned that both her parents had accepted her call as
+from God. After a happy visit of two weeks she returned to her work.
+With the blessing of God upon her labors, we shall here bid her
+good-by.
+
+In conclusion, we wish to say that what she became was principally in
+answer to her faithful mother's prayers. Had she been left--as many
+girls are--without a mother's tender love and confidence, mingled with
+many earnest prayers, she would have fallen into temptations that she
+never knew. She had fully proved the worth of a praying mother.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+
+A PLEA TO MOTHERS.
+
+Home as God intended it is built upon the corner-stone of virtue and
+prayer. It makes no difference how beautiful the house nor how grand its
+contents, if the mother is a woman who does not care for God or virtue,
+the corner-stone of that home is lacking. Such a home can not stand when
+trial and temptation enter.
+
+A stream never rises above its source, nor a home above the ideals of
+its founders. No matter how humble the home, do not belittle its
+possibilities. Anything so sacred as home can command heaven's choicest
+and best blessings. The humblest cabin may contain that element which
+makes home the shrine of happiness and the temple of peace, and will
+cause it to send forth saints and heroes.
+
+Oh that parents, especially mothers, could realize their influence in
+the home, their power to direct the young minds around them into the
+proper channel! Let us so educate and train the children that they will
+be able to get the greatest good from their natural endowment and that
+they may use it in such a manner as will bring the most glory to God. So
+train them and so live before them in the home that in after-years they
+will say with pleasure: "This precept was always taught me by my
+parents. Father and Mother's holy example has been a priceless
+birthright to me."
+
+This is true parenthood. It should be the ideal in every home. By this I
+mean parents who realize their responsibility and have their children's
+best interest at heart; parents who will sacrifice any pleasure of their
+own for the benefit and happiness of their little ones; parents who will
+not only bid their children a hearty welcome into the world, but will
+care for their future from that moment, and who have the love and
+respect of their entire household.
+
+You may say that parents like these are few and hard to find. True, but
+it is equally so that, with proper knowledge and understanding, many
+would approach this standard. Perhaps some have allowed years to slip
+carelessly by and their darlings to pass seemingly beyond their control.
+To such I would say, It is never too late to pray.
+
+Observe the wayward boy whose chief inheritance is a wild, wilful
+nature. He is nearing his fourteenth birthday. Having been allowed to
+have his own way while small, he has cultivated an ungovernable desire
+to do as he pleases. Let the mother of that boy cease her old habit of
+saying, "I don't know what will become of that boy! I don't understand
+how he can treat me so rudely. I've done all I can, and he just grows
+worse," and take a more rational method. Have you gone to that boy and
+told him the sweet, simple story of Jesus and why he came from his
+beautiful home; that a part of his mission was to teach you how to make
+your home after the pattern of his heavenly home; that his heart is
+touched with compassion when he beholds any one in trouble; that he is
+grieved because you have made a mistake; but that you are sorry and are
+decided to do your duty? Have you told the boy all that? Have you knelt
+beside his bed at night with your tear-dimmed eyes pressed upon his
+hand, and told him the great dangers that are before him, even
+surrounding him, and informed him how to avoid them? Have you told him
+that he is at the most critical time in his life, that a mistake now
+will mean a life of suffering for both him and you, and that he can with
+you begin over and remove some of his past mistakes? Have you talked
+thus to your boy? If not, why not? It is your privilege as well as your
+duty.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVI.
+
+
+PARENTAL DUTY.
+
+The first duty of father and mother to their child is to see that they
+are a unit on family government. Second, they must study themselves and
+their failures, trying to make the weak places strong. Third, study the
+disposition of the child, gain an understanding of its inner life, and
+find out what pleases and displeases it; and, while cultivating the
+good, hold in check the bad. A mother should understand her children
+better than any one else. If she is a thoughtful mother, she knows not
+only the surroundings of her children, but many of the impressions that
+she has stamped upon their undeveloped minds.
+
+Children are not putty that can be moulded into any form to suit our
+fancy, but there is a method by which we can fashion their young lives.
+Much patience, devotion to the child, and fervent prayer will be
+needful to accomplish anything worth while.
+
+Every parent should see that their attitude toward their children is
+what it should be. Consider their feelings and show them respect,
+remembering that they have rights upon which you must not intrude; but
+never loosen the reigns of home government. Make any rules that you
+think practicable and necessary; explain each rule carefully to your
+child, giving your reason for making it, and then demand obedience.
+Never, unless for some special reason, ignore any good rule. Should your
+child happen to break one of these rules, do not punish without first
+finding out the cause. He may not have understood your meaning, or he
+may have forgotten. Take him quietly aside; and, after finding out why
+he has disobeyed, gently tell him again your reasons for making the
+rules and the necessity of his obedience. You might have to do this
+several times, but do not excuse him too long. When it is necessary to
+punish, ask for wisdom from above, and then punish in a way that he will
+understand you and remember the punishment. When you make a statement,
+stand by it, if possible, unless you see error in it. If such be the
+case, confess your fault. If your child does not show you due respect
+and obedience, there is a cause for it, and it is your duty to find out
+what that cause is.
+
+All children have to contend with bad qualities that have been
+inherited. Do not flatter yourself that because the child is yours it
+will escape temptation; for all must be tempted, if they would be
+strong. Teach your children, according to their ability to comprehend,
+all that they should know to be able to shun evil. Do not think that
+because your child has inherited some moral weakness, you are helpless
+to teach him to overcome it. You can explain to him his danger and tell
+him what yielding to the temptations that come to him because of this
+weakness will lead to. Point out the effect of this sin upon the one
+from whom it was inherited. Tell the child that the only chance to
+overcome this inherited tendency will be by constantly avoiding those
+things that will lead to temptation. You may find the task difficult and
+you may sometimes feel disheartened, but you must put that wayward child
+of yours right, if possible, or God will hold you accountable. Perhaps
+the inherited sin may lie at your own door. If it does, you will
+understand better how to help him from under its power.
+
+In the public school, on the street, and in his various associations,
+your child will be exposed to the evil of hearing impure language from
+vile lips; and if he be not warned, who can blame him for listening?
+Your home teaching must overbalance all that he hears outside.
+
+Should some question concerning the mysteries of his own body or of his
+own origin be aroused in his mind by impure stories or by any other
+cause, you must at once arise to meet the difficulty before harm is
+done that will be very difficult to overcome. But some mother will say:
+"I do not know what answer to make my child when he asks questions of
+such a delicate nature. Would it not be best to leave his mind free from
+these ideas until he is older?" Doubtless it would, if the child would
+be contented to wait; but when he has learned enough to ask the
+question, he is able to tell whether you speak the truth when you say
+you do not know, and he will not be satisfied by the flimsy pretest,
+"Oh, run away and don't bother me; I'm too busy."
+
+Above all else, keep the confidence of your child, so that he will come
+to you with every trouble of life. Confidence of children in their
+parents is a gift from God. All children have it at first. See the
+tottering baby cling to its mother for support; watch it run to her when
+it is frightened. Can it not have the same confidence when it is older?
+I answer from experience that it can and should. Truth inspires trust
+in your child. If you do not think it best to answer all his questions
+fully at the time when he asks them, tell him at least enough to satisfy
+his curiosity, and promise him that, if this remains a secret between
+you and him, he may come to you whenever he wants more information. Do
+not be afraid of having secrets with your child. The matter may be
+trifling, but the fact that he is helping you to keep secrets will teach
+him to value his word and will increase his confidence in you. On the
+other hand, if you tell him an untruth, do not think that he will come
+to you again. No, he will doubtless go to some friend who he thinks will
+tell him, and thus get his young mind tainted with impure thoughts. And
+little better in results than telling an untruth is putting the child
+off till some future time. These questions must be met when they arrive.
+
+You may say, "I don't know how much to tell at any one time." Wisdom is
+necessary here. No more should be told than will satisfy the present
+curiosity of the child. A few questions on your part will readily
+discover what information he has gained and how much he wishes to know.
+
+A boy of scarce six summers once came to his mother with a question of
+life. The mother was shocked; but, offering an earnest prayer for
+wisdom, she questioned the child and found that he had heard remarks
+made by older boys. As his mind was developed enough to comprehend part
+of their conversation, his curiosity was aroused. Having perfect
+confidence in his mother, he had sought her for an explanation of the
+points that perplexed him. As simply as possible, that mother gave the
+information, ending with the words, "Now, darling, this is to be a
+perfect secret between us; and when you are old enough, I will tell you
+more." Years passed by until the boy was in his eleventh year; then he
+once more went to his mother for information. "Mama," he began, "do you
+remember the time you told me a secret?" She answered that she did, and
+he continued: "Well, I have kept that secret. I have never mentioned it
+to any one. And do you remember that you said some time you would tell
+me more?" When she answered, "Yes," he said quickly, "Don't you think
+I'm old enough now?" In answer, the mother put her arms about him and
+said, "My son, you shall hear all you wish to hear. What is it, dear?"
+Then as each question came, she gave him a satisfactory answer, and
+ended by saying, "Whenever you want to know more, come to me, and I will
+tell you." That boy continued to go to his mother; and when he entered
+the most trying period of his life, her advice kept him from the dangers
+into which so many fall. In hours of trial she was able to point him to
+the Savior. Never neglect the duty of warning your child of danger.
+
+Teaching of this kind will endear you to your children long after you
+are resting in the grave. They will recount, "My mother told me this.
+My father taught me that. They must have understood God's plan of
+salvation, or they would never have known how to tell me these things."
+But the task will require your highest talents. Sympathy and love,
+constant watchfulness, and earnest prayer will be the most needful.
+Since the child does not know himself, you must learn to know him. You
+must search for the secret springs that govern his actions and for the
+master key that will unlock his heart.
+
+One dear young woman, relating her experience to me, said: "My mother
+died when I was only six years old; but I know she must have been a
+Christian, because some friends who knew her told me of her devoted life
+and of earnest pleadings for her children when she saw that she must
+leave them. All that I can remember about her was seeing her bowing in
+prayer or talking to us children. There are desires in my nature that I
+know must have been planted within me in answer to her prayer. After
+her death I was cast out upon the world. I went to live with a very
+ungodly family, but that sense of right and wrong within me made me shun
+and despise their evil ways. I loved to read my Bible. From it I learned
+that, if I would gain heaven, I must forsake sin and live a pure life.
+To live such a life was a pleasure until I found that the denomination
+whose meetings I attended would not allow me to say much about a holy
+life, because their creed did not teach it. Then I promised the Lord
+that I would be a Christian if I had to be one all by myself. This was
+not necessary, for I found many true Christians who believed all that
+the Bible teaches."
+
+That mother's prayers had fashioned and governed the life of her
+daughter long before the child was able to understand her mother's
+meaning. Parents can not begin too early to win the child's love and
+confidence, and they should spare no pains to maintain these to mature
+years. Those who do will find that their children will never, even to
+old age, fail to come to them for sympathy and advice. Children so
+reared will always love and honor their father and mother as the Bible
+says they should, and will look upon their parents' lives as examples
+for them to imitate. See to it that you show yourself a good pattern, in
+thought, word, and deed, for them to follow.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXVII.
+
+
+USEFUL HINTS.
+
+There is no definite rule whereby parents may control their home, except
+to seek advice from God, for no two families have the same environment.
+Any method that will bring about the desired result may be applied; but
+the method must be systematic and thorough. A positive attitude is good,
+and should be encouraged, but harshness ought never to be used. The
+latter will tend to discouragement and resentment in the child, while
+the former will teach the difference between right and wrong.
+
+Be charitable to your children in regard to their faults and failings,
+so that they may learn by your example to be charitable to each other
+and to their fellows. Teach them the blessings that charity will bring
+to them; show them that it is the greatest of God's gifts and that
+without it they will meet many buffetings from their contact with the
+world. Remember that Paul speaks of it as "the more excellent way" and
+admonishes us to desire it above all things else.
+
+Children must have entertainment. Rich and costly furniture, elaborate
+parties, or even guests are not necessary. Children may be entertained
+in a very simple manner. What child does not enjoy the old-fashioned
+game of hide-and-seek, tag, or some such innocent amusement with Papa
+and Mama? It may take a little of your time, but what of that? Do all
+you can to make your home the happiest place on earth for your children.
+
+"Yes," says one, "that will do while the children are little; but just
+wait until they grow up, and then they will seek other company." I did
+not say that they must always stay with you. Of course they will desire
+to go from home sometimes. What I mean is that we can make home so
+attractive that they will note the difference between it and the outside
+world. The interest we take in them will constrain them to remain at
+home and to return when away from it. Home! Oh that beautiful word!
+Poets have written about it, choirs have sung about it, but who can
+fathom the meaning of that little word, home! None but the child who has
+been taught to revere, cherish, and enjoy it, and then looking back
+remembers the happy years spent in the home circle.
+
+I think that I hear a father say, "When I return from my work, I am so
+tired I can not stand the children's noise." Is that so? Do you not love
+your children, and are you not working for their welfare! If so, do you
+not think that a little less labor with your hands and a little time
+spent with them would be more profitable? Perhaps a little romp or chat
+with them would rest you. Try it anyway. You who are desk workers can
+afford it: it will help you to cast off the responsibilities of the day
+and the better prepare you for the morrow. A romp with the children is
+not lost; but, on the other hand, is a benefit for both parent and
+child. Thoughtful parents can think of many things that will increase
+the interest in home and will draw them closer to their children.
+
+Sometimes it is good for the children to visit their friends, but
+parents should always be acquainted with these friends. Never let your
+child go where games are played that you would not allow played in your
+own home. Here is where conscience and confidence will help you. Be
+cautious about allowing your child to go somewhere to stay all night. In
+this way many a child has learned evil practises and in some cases been
+ruined. Then, too, it draws his mind away from the home circle.
+
+"But," you say, "all this I have done, and yet my children are now
+forgetful of it all. They are indulging in many things that they were
+taught to be harmful to the soul." My dear friend, can you not remember
+when this state of things began? Can you not point to a time when there
+was a drifting from your home circle? when home life began to seem too
+narrow for your child? when he began to crave the association of others
+more than that of his own brothers and sisters? Did you at that time
+lift up your home banner and shield? Did you tell him of the rapids in
+the distance? "No," you falteringly answer; "I thought there could be no
+harm in allowing him to mingle with his chums at school and to visit
+them in their homes. I was afraid to be too particular, lest he should
+think me too strict with him." Ah! friend, that was your golden
+opportunity, and you failed to see it. After instructing the child, you
+should have bowed with him in prayer, giving him over to God's keeping.
+Then, if he chose to go--remembering that your prayers were following
+him--nine chances out of ten he would have returned with words similar
+to those spoken by a youth who had been permitted to attend a party. In
+answer to his father's question he said, "Yes; I had a good time, but I
+have better times at home." "Better times at home!" Think of it,
+parents! Is it not worth some self-denial, some sacrifices, on pour
+part, to have your home spoken of in this manner?
+
+"Yes," says a mother, "that is all right when both parents are in
+harmony and have salvation; but suppose that the parents are poor and
+that one is unsaved?" I have seen just such homes as this governed in
+the manner whereof I speak. God gave more grace and strength to the
+saved companion; and, although there were many difficulties to
+encounter, yet the saved one was able to influence the home for God.
+"All things are possible to him that believeth," said Christ in olden
+times, and his statement is still true.
+
+Again, I hear a parent whose loved companion has recently died say,
+"What can I do now to train my children aright?" There comes before my
+mind a beautiful scene of a faithful mother with her son and daughter
+whom she had brought up to God's glory. She was left alone with these
+two precious ones to guide and rear to manhood and womanhood. She bade
+adieu to the words "I can't" and with determination went about her task.
+As God never lets such zeal go without assistance, this mother found
+help in time of need. Another scene which I love to recall is that of a
+devoted father and by his side his two motherless daughters just
+entering womanhood. He gives them every spare moment that he has, and
+both are real examples of trust and purity.
+
+In your zeal to find entertainment for your children, do not forget that
+they must have employment. See that every member of your household has
+certain work to do. This work should be suited to the years and the
+strength of the individual and, if possible, to his likes and dislikes.
+Work of the proper kind will strengthen the muscles, improve the health,
+keep out many evils, and create in the young a desire to help bear the
+burdens of life. Periods of rest may be made profitable by having on
+hand as much wholesome literature as you are able to secure. By this
+means much useful knowledge may be stored. The reading need not be
+confined wholly to religious works; reliable treatises on science, art,
+mechanics, cooking, chemistry, domestic economy, health, etc., are all
+profitable if not indulged in to the exclusion of religious literature.
+If you trust God, he will help you to know what to do.
+
+A lady once said, "Our children are what we make them, and we get out of
+them just what we put in." These words contain much truth. God holds all
+parents, according to their light and understanding, responsible for the
+training of their children.
+
+If you have a preference among your children, never reveal it. On the
+contrary, endeavor to place the less favored ahead in your care and
+attention. You can justly do this, for the favorite will get all the
+attention he deserves anyway. I well remember a case where the mother's
+favorite son brought sorrow and shame to the entire household by
+stealing from his own father, simply because she had humored and petted
+him in childhood. Parents can not be too careful in this respect.
+
+Many a mother does not realize how highly her children value her
+opinion. A boy had met with an accident that somewhat disfigured him for
+a time. While he was preparing to leave for school, his mother said,
+"You will no doubt be made sport of today; are you able to bear it?" His
+answer was, "Oh, I don't care what any one says about me but you; but if
+you were to make fun of me, I couldn't stand it."
+
+SWEET GEM OF THE HOME.
+
+    _Thou formal home, so graced, so blest,
+      With earthly treasures rare;
+    Within thy portals we expect
+      All graces rich and fair.
+
+    We gaze, we search, but all in vain;
+      The gem we love so well,
+    "Sweet innocence," doth not remain,
+      Nor in thy chambers dwell.
+
+    Thy children, as the world they greet,
+      Are bearing tales of thee;
+    "I was not warned," they oft repeat,
+      Nor taught at Mother's knee.
+
+    Sweet Innocence, thou heav'nly grace,
+      Rich gem from God above!
+    Thy touch upon the human face
+      Reveals but peace and love.
+
+    Thy treasures richer far than gold,
+      Thy gifts of greatest worth,
+    Might grace our homes, except for sin,
+      Whose curse now sweeps the earth.
+
+    We look for thee within the maid,
+      With beauty, grace, and charm,
+    But find thy flight she hath not stayed,
+      Nor doth she feel alarm.
+
+    Then in the lad, whose noble brow
+      Thy presence might suggest;
+    With closer view we must allow
+      By thee he is not blest.
+
+    E'en when we look within the child
+      And laud his graces sweet,
+    We find his mind so soon defiled
+      For thee 'tis no retreat.
+
+    "And why?" we ask, "oh! why is this?
+      Such need and dearth abound.
+    Oh! why in homes of promised bliss
+      May not this gem be found?"
+
+    The mystery, so deep, so great,
+      Is simply lack of prayer;
+    Is bidding timely warning wait
+    For daily toil and care.
+
+    Allowing things that crumble, waste,
+      Our whole attention claim,
+    We cause sweet Innocence in haste
+    To leave our homes to shame.
+
+    But thee, sweet grace, we find in some--
+      Thank God thou art not lost!--
+    We see thee in the Christian home
+      As royal guest and host.
+
+    We note the mother as she pleads
+      For counsel from God's throne,
+    Then goes with wisdom that she needs
+      And strength to make it known.
+
+    We watch the child in this true home,
+      And in its face so fair
+    We recognise what doth become
+      A faithful mother's prayer.
+
+    Sweet Innocence! may we extol,
+      Within the home, thy art;
+    Thy power to beautify the soul,
+      To teach the pure in heart.
+
+    Thou gift divine! thou fairest gem!
+      Thy presence may we crave,
+    That thou mayst grace our diadem
+      In life beyond the grave.
+
+    Reveal, O grace, unto the world
+      Thy beauties rich and rare,
+    That all may understand and know
+      What mothers find in prayer_.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's The value of a praying mother, by Isabel C. Byrum
+
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