Page:Christian Science War Time Activities.djvu/229

 boxes in an inside pocket, and the reverence and gratitude with which they handled them showed how great a value they placed upon them.

There were few requests from civilians in Nantes for literature. Some French people visited the Rooms confessedly out of curiosity and each of these asked for French pamphlets. A few, however, became sincerely interested in Christian Science, bought the books and attended an occasional service; but for the most part they had little desire to “think on these things,” being profoundly concerned with human affairs. Those who were interested enough to study the literature found Science and Health so entirely satisfying that they no longer wanted to read anything else, and they invariably had a great appreciation of Mrs. Eddy.

The people of Nantes for the most part understood and praised the purpose of the Christian Science War Relief Committee. When it became known that the Christian Scientists had given 5000 francs for the relief of the refugees during the winter, a great deal of gratitude and a very friendly interest in the welfare of the Workers was expressed. The news of the gift to the city and the willingness of the committee to help with the Community Christmas tree were subjects for much conversation in Nantes for many days. The tree, too, to which were given warm clothing, candy bags, and toys for two hundred war orphans, was a complete success, and seemed to add to the impression already abroad that Christian Science was in every way a religion to be commended. As a practical proof of appreciation our War Relief Committee was given the place of honor at the New Year's dinner