Page:Ragged Trousered Philanthropists.djvu/157

 But it was not merely his air of good breeding and the general comeliness of his exterior that pleased and attracted. There was an indefinable something about him, an atmosphere of gentleness and love that seemed to radiate from his whole being, almost compelling confidence and affection from those with whom he came in contact.

As he stood there facing the others with an inexpressibly winning smile upon his face, it seemed impossible that there could be any fellowship between him and them.

He did not give a very long address this afternoon, only just a few words; but they were very precious, original and illuminating. He told them of certain thoughts that had occured to his mind on the way there that afternoon; and as they listened, Sweater, Rushton, Didlum, Hunter, and the other disciples exchanged significant looks and gestures. Was it not magnificent! Such power! Such reasoning! In fact, as they afterwards modestly admitted to each other, it was so profound that even they experienced great difficulty in fathoming the speaker's meaning.

As for the ladies, they were motionless and dumb with admiration. They sat with flushed faces, shining eyes and palpitating hearts, looking hungrily at the dear man as he proceeded:

'Unfortunately our time this afternoon does not permit us to dwell at length upon these Thoughts. Perhaps at some future date we may have the blessed privilege of so doing. But this afternoon I have been asked to say a few words on another subject. The failing health of your dear minister has for some time past engaged the anxious attention of the congregation.'

Sympathetic glances were directed towards the interesting invalid; the ladies murmured 'Poor dear!' and other expressions of anxious concern.

'Although naturally robust,' continued Starr, 'long continued overwork, the loving solicitude for others that often prevented him taking even necessary repose, and a too vigorous devotion to the practice of self denial, have at last brought about the inevitable breakdown, and rendered a period of rest absolutely imperative.'

'With this laudable object,' proceeded Starr, 'a Subscription List was quietly opened about a month ago, and those dear children who had cards and assisted in the good work 145