The missionary, who was watching his friend closely, now said:
"Since I have answered your question, Simon, it is right that I should know why you ask it."
"Wal, it's this: Just as I had The Panther down, and was 'bout to finish the bus'ness, I heard you speak."
"Heard me speak? And what did I say?"
"'Show him mercy, and mercy shall be shown unto you when you need it;' so what could I do but let him up?"
The good man understood the incident better than did Kenton himself.
"But," he said, gently, "I have just explained that I was too far from you for me to make myself heard."
"Whose voice was it, then?"
"The voice of Conscience, Simon, or the whisperings of God. It may have sounded louder to you just then than usual, but it was not the first time it has sounded in your ear, reproving you when you have done wrong, and commending you when you have done right. Listen and heed what it tells you, Simon, and no matter what comes, all shall be well with you."
The missionary saw that his words had made a strong impression, and he was wise in saying no more.