Tak' a bit o' Christmas loaf, and go your ways back now,
dearies, for we'll be heving a storm varry soon."
They went merrily out, and about fifty yards away met Mr. North. He
also looked very happy, and his lips were moving, as if he was silently
singing. In fact, he was very happy; he had been giving gifts to the
poor, and the blessing of many "ready to perish" was upon him. He
thanked Phyllis and Elizabeth for the Christmas offerings sent to his
chapel; and told them of a special service that was to be held on the
first Sunday of the new year. "I should like you to be there, Miss
Fontaine," he said, "for I think this peculiar service of Methodism
is not held in America."
His happiness had conquered his timidity. He looked almost handsome,
as he gave them at parting "God's blessing," and the wish for a "Merry
Christmas."
"I wish you would ask him to dinner, Elizabeth?"
"Certainly, I will. I should like to do it."
They hurried after him, and overtook him, with his hand upon a cottage
gate.
"Will you come and dine with us, Mr. North? It is a gala night at the
hall, and many of your people will be there. They will like to see
you, and you will add to our pleasure also."
"Thank you, Miss Hallam. It will be very pleasant to me. My duty will
be finished in half an hour, then I will follow you.
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