Page:Anna Chapin--Half a dozen boys.djvu/15



“‘ among all the changes and chances of this mortal life,’” intoned the musical voice  of the rector, “‘they may ever be defended by  Thy most gracious and ready help, through  Jesus Christ our Lord.’”

“Amen,” responded the kneeling choir.

There was a moment of perfect quiet, as all bowed in silent prayer; and then the organist  softly began to play the first lines of Barnby’s  All Saints’ Hymn, “For all the Saints,” and  the boys rose for their recessional. Their bright, happy faces smiled down for a moment  on the waiting congregation, and then their  voices rose in the inspiring old hymn.