Page:Storys of the three beggars (1).pdf/8

 and know that to harass the poor is a sin of the first magnitude.”

The blind men, who were terrified at the apprehension of the bastinado, made their escape with all possible haste; while Nicholas, who had reckoned on losing his ten-pence, (being delighted to find a person to pay it) launched out into the most flattering encomiums on the churchman.

“What a good man !” cried he; that is the kind of priests we should have, and then they would be respected. But, unfortunately, there are few such ! Be assured, Sir, so handsome an action will not go unrewarded. You will prosper in the world, take my word for it; and will find the good effects of your generosity.”

All that the crafty traveller had been saying to his host, was but a fresh piece of roguery on his part; for, in luring the innkeeper with such ostentation of generosity, lie only meant to trick him as he had already done the beggars.

Just at that moment the parish-bell was ringing to prayers. He asked who was to perform the service: they told him it was their parson.

“As he is your pastor, mastor Nicholas,” he further said, you are most probably acquainted with him ?

“Yes, Sir.”