“I knew you would forgive me.”
The attendant came in and said that he must rest, and I went out full of wonder at the power that could humble a proud spirit like Wright’s, and change him to a meek penitent.
My astonishment was increased when returning health enabled him to go on with his studies. There was no longer rivalry; a new purpose burned in his heart, beamed in his eye, and influenced every look and word; not one that had known him before but was constrained to say that he had been with Jesus.
My last year in college was a constant delight to me. I was not so much pressed by pecuniary matters. Above all, I had succeeded in winning the good-will and esteem of those around me. After Wright’s illness, his heart clung to me with as much intensity as before he had carefully avoided me, while Harry Gilmore gave me all a brother’s love, and Frank Clavers was the same true friend as ever.
At Commencement, when the highest honor was awarded me, I felt a thrill of satisfaction that was an ample equivalent for long years of labor. Afterwards, when I stood before the assembled throng, conscious that many eyes were upon me, and bright, happy faces looking their approval, I only saw one, a sweet, pure face, with the golden hair parted over a broad white forehead, while an expression of peace and of trust rested on the whole countenance. It was a happy day to Jennie. So far my work was done, and, they said, well done. I looked upon it as only reaching another stage in my ascent; the first and second heights were won, and a profession was now to be chosen.
In the evening there was a levee at the President’s house, and for Jennie’s sake as well as my own I was glad. The good man received me very kindly, and so far unbent himself as to speak of the courage and industry of my last three years, then of my success—introducing me to several men who were there, and whom it was an honor and a privilege to meet. “Energy is essential,” he said, “but patience and perseverance are the crowning virtues. You have practised these faithfully. God grant that you may continue to do the same to the end.”
It was a happy gathering; and when I went to my room, it was first to fall upon my knees, pouring out my heart in gratitude to that God who had been so mindful, leading me by the hand up through the narrow defile of poverty and want, into a broader way, where I could catch glimpses of the promised land, renewing my vows, and consecrating myself anew to his service.
XV.
“Now you are ready for a profession,” said Miss Grimshaw, as once more we were seated in her little parlor.
“Marston is troubled about being a lawyer,” Jennie said, as she leaned over my shoulder, running her taper fingers through my hair. “He used to think he could be happy in nothing else.”