“Evil is wrought by want of thought
As well as by want of heart.”
Mrs. Woodley sat down with a very red face.
“The evil in this case you will see from Mrs. Haloran’s letter, which I will now read:
“Dear Madam:
“The barrel so generously sent by the First Church is received and its contents are carefully noted. I find after prayerful consideration of our wardrobes that we really are not in need of the articles contained in it, and I return it thus promptly that it may be used in discharging the obligations of the First Church to some of its other missionaries. If sent to the right place—say to a self-respecting minister with a wife whose spirit has not been entirely crushed out by the burdens of frontier life—I should think it might be used several times for this purpose.
“I add a small contribution in the shape of Scripture texts, which will enhance the value of your gifts. The home missionary is so accustomed to subsisting on the Word of God that he may be able to feed on these and be filled. Likewise, they may have the effect to clothe him with the garment of praise. It is perhaps not too much to hope that they may also do good (incidentally) to them that are of the household of faith in the First Church. To this end I will ask that they be read to the ladies of your Society while an inventory of the barrel is taken.
“Very sincerely yours,
“Mary C. Haloran.”
“That’s a spicy letter,” whispered one woman to another with a sparkle of appreciation. “The woman’s no fool—if she did go into Home Mission work.”