“Yes, we have,” the deacon replied.
“I am sorry to hear it; for if all that is said about him is true, you have made a mistake.”
And what did this Reverend brother know of the other Reverend brother to justify him in speaking thus? Why, just nothing at all. True, he had heard a rumour, but personal knowledge he had none. However, what he said so influenced the mind of Deacon Bunsen, that he did all he could to have the invitation withdrawn; which being done, the Rev. Mr. Little, by certain “wire pulling” on his part, and a good word spoken for him by a layman of wealth on his part, managed to secure the pastorate of the said church for himself.
“I hear that young Bush is coming into your bank as cashier,” observed Mr. Young to Mr. Monk, the manager.
“Yes; he enters upon his duties next week.”
“But have you not heard what is afloat about him?”
“No. I have heard nothing.”
“Then the less said the soonest mended,” answered Young.
Now this Mr. Young knew nothing personally against young Bush, but had heard a rumour which prejudiced him to speak in this way of him; the result of which was that the manager evinced suspicion of the young man until he had been in the bank some time, and by his unquestionable conduct had proved that Mr. Young’s insinuation was nothing but prejudice grounded upon rumour and ignorance of him.
Thus it is that the prejudiced talker may do a great deal of mischief against persons of the most innocent character.