Page:Halek's Stories and Evensongs.pdf/146

 Grandfather stood there almost meek and gentle. Even Uncle John felt that much, very much, of what had so long separated him from grandfather’s heart fell from him all at once. Those remembrances of early life, of that family union and that peace which had never been disturbed, awakened in him an eager longing to win back that peace which had been banished from their home as if by enchantment.

A man has moments when he slackens in his opposition. The harsher characteristics of those against whom we struggle disappear, and there emerge in place of them better sides to which we had been blind for many a long day. This relaxation of mind is, in fact, a pause, and in moments of repose a man makes plans. If in such moments he should all at once stand hand in hand with his opponent, perhaps he would then and there give his hand in reconciliation.

As I say these moments are moments of rest and reconciliation. Sometimes, however, opposition slackens in them only that it may afterwards exhibit itself with new force, and develop to a truly amazing degree.

Uncle John did not slacken in his opposition. Sometimes a child takes a weapon out of our hands which we would not have surrendered before for all the world.

Grandfather disarmed Uncle John by his moderation; he was meek and gentle as a child.

“Do you really think you cannot give up Betuska?” inquired grandfather, after a pause, during which he narrowly observed his son.

Grandfather’s voice almost quavered.

“Oh, father, have you called me to you only to demand this?” answered Uncle John, almost with anguish.

“Come, I did not wish to hurt your feelings, and you see that we separate in good part.”

Uncle John listened submissively.

“You think that Betuska really loves you.”

“As surely as I believe in God”, answered uncle.

“See, now, I do not wish to dissipate this belief. If you think you are acting rightly settle it with your own conscience. Only one thing I implore of you. If you are to undertake the farm you will require a wife who is a good manager. For my part I do not wish to detract from Betuska, or suggest that she could not undertake our household. But yet there can be no harm in looking elsewhere also, in order that you may compare. In look-