The time was sweet and solemn. I went through the sacramental service.
The countenance and manner of the child evinced powerful feelings. Tears mingled with smiles—resignation brightened by hope—humility animated by faith—a child-like modesty adorned with the understanding of a riper age—gratitude, peace, devotion, patience—all these were visible. I thought I distinctly saw them all—and did I alone see them? Is it too much to say that other created beings, whom I could not behold with my natural eyes, were witnesses of the scene?
If ministering angels do ascend and descend with glad tidings between earth and heaven, I think they did so then.
When I had concluded the service, I said,—
“Now, my dear Jane, you are indeed become a sister in the Church of Christ. May his Spirit and blessing rest upon you, strengthen and refresh you!”
“My mercies are great, very great, sir; greater than I can express. I thank you for this favour—I thought I was too young—it seemed too much for me to think of; but I am now sure the Lord is good to me, and I hope I have done right.”
“Yes, Jenny; and I trust you are both outwardly and
inwardly sealed by the Holy Ghost to the day of redemption.”
“Sir, I shall never forget this day.”
“Neither, I think, shall I.”