CHAPTER XII.
THE TEMPERANCE CAUSE.
THE missionary, after bidding farewell to the kind friends with whom he had spent the night, again went on his way, “Seeking the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” He had not gone far before he met two children, who proved to be Mr. Steele’s. Upon entering into conversation with them, he found that they remembered him. Their bright, intelligent answers to his questions, led him to regret more deeply that they were kept from the influence of the Sunday-school. The innate kindness of heart manifested by these children made him feel that, if properly trained, they would become useful members of society and the church; so, with a view to using all possible influence in their favor, we again find him an unwelcome visitor on the farm of Mr. Steele.
The farmer was at the time unloading wood, and scarcely noticed the missionary; the latter soon broached the subject occupying his thoughts, by saying,
“My friend, could you not consent to take your children to Sunday-school once, on trial?”
“No sir!” he roared; “and I don’t want you to bother me any more about it;” and continued, “work like I do, and let your betters alone.”
“Well then,” said the missionary, “if you will not go yourself, will you not permit your children to go? I know that the school would be a great benefit to them, and”——
“I don’t want to hear any more of your nonsense—just ‘git,’ you lazy loafer,” retorted the angry man.