The works of God for his model could not but ennoble and purify his taste, and such a choice would probably be a safe-guard from many of the temptations of the world. But was it possible that Guy would seek through it the fulfilment of ambitions at which he had sometimes hinted? It was possible, and it was a fact.
"I cannot be a clergyman," thought he; "I am not good enough to preach to others."
"You must preach by your life," whispered an indwelling monitor; "see that the sermon be sound and faithful."
"I do not like the law, it has so much to do with injustice and contention."
"Blessed are the peacemakers," rose to his mind.
"I cannot be a merchant, for I have no money to begin with."
"Thou shalt not covet," said the monitor again.
"I think I can paint in time, and I love it more than anything that seems within my reach. But will it do any good in the world?"
"'Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.'"
"And if I cannot do that, I will not be a painter," thought Guy; "to earn money is all very well, and I like the idea very much, but it isn't everything. Can I serve God in my work? I can think about Him, love Him, admire Him, but can I serve Him by copying His beautiful works on to my canvas, and wishing men to buy the representation? Is it not selfish, useless in the world? Are people the better for the study of art?"