"Yes, as though in counsel. He would tell me certain conditions, and ask me what I thought we had better do."
"An ideal preparation for philanthropic service." He was serious now.
"There awoke within me, very early, the purpose to serve my fellow men in the largest possible way. Grandfather fostered this; and when the time came for me to go to college, he helped me plan my course of study." She looked far away.
"You followed it out?"
"Very nearly. You see, Mr. Hastings, service is no accident with me. It dates back generations. It is in my blood."
"Your blood is of the finest sort. Surely service does not mean living in close touch with immoral, disreputable people."
Her eyes kindled, grew dark in color.
"What does it mean, then? The strong, the pure, the godly should live among men, teach by precept and example how to live, and show the loveliness of pure living just as Jesus did. I have visited prisons with grandfather, have prayed with and for criminals, and have sung in the prisons. Is it not worth while to help these wretched creatures look away from themselves to God?"
"Oh, Miss Bright," he protested, "it is dreadful for a young girl like you even to hear of the wickedness of men."
"Women are wicked, too," she responded seriously, "but I never lose hope for any one."