Page:The Social War.djvu/39

Rh not pleasing, concerning another matter entirely, flashed through my mind, which caused me to express myself a little emphatic, which I humbly pray you to pardon, for you must be aware that we are all sinners; but, thank God that his grace is abundant toward his elect," humbly responded Deacon Rob Stew.

"Your apology is accepted, and I am glad that I have not asked too much of you; but, when I come to think, it was not my intention to have you select a physician, but it was father's doings, who has such unfeigned confidence in your worth and goodness," said Miss Armington.

"I appreciate this compliment, and shall endeavor to merit it, if God is willing," replied the deacon.

After exchanging 'many words with Miss Lucinda, the over-rated deacon departed, but accidentally met Pat O 'Conner again, just as he was leaving the piazza, when the deacon said:

"Pat, how do you find things to-day; have you heard anything lately of this Mr. Juno?"

"Shurely yer honor must know more than I doos of what am goin' on in this house, or at Mr. Juno's plaze. Ye are a cunnin' gintleman; be jabers, ye make hay, I belave, while the sun shines. Will yer honor have the graceousness to kape my sacret away from Miss Armington? " said Pat.

"Pat, never fear me; but, to convince you of my trust worthiness, I will tell you a great secret, if you promise to hold it sacred and will serve me," replied the deacon.

"Och, murdher, yer honor, don't be a placin' me on aquality wid your holy self, I am only a poor workin' Irishman; howsomever, I kin kape sacrets, I warrant ye, an' if I kin sarve ye, will do it widout tanks," said Pat.

"I believe you, Pat, and as you confided in me without solicitation on my part, I will now return the compliment, and tell you that I hate that Victor Juno. He is a heathen, a heretic and an impudent innovator; and although, good Pat, you and I do not agree in religion