"The company all smiled at the man's inconsistency and folly; and the conversation was changed. So, my dear children, if you believe only what you can understand, and can explain, you may as well part with your senses, as you are surrounded by the wonderful works of God, whose ways are past finding out."
"Jehovah!—Father, Spirit, Son!
Eternal Godhead! Three in One!
Before Thy throne we sinners bend;
Grace, pardon, life, to us extend."
[CHAPTER VII.]
THE PURPOSE OF GOD; OR, THE NEW HOUSE.
QUESTION VII. What are the decrees of God?
ANSWER. The decrees of God are his eternal purpose, according to the counsel of his will, whereby, for his own glory, he hath foreordained whatsoever comes to pass.
——————
A FEW days succeeding the last lesson, Mr. Dermott received letters which rendered it necessary for him to leave home sooner than he had anticipated. His wife keenly regretted this, as, aside from the great pleasure she experienced in his society, she had been so much assisted by him in the catechisings. As he must leave two days before the evening for another lesson, it was proposed by the children that the exercise should be anticipated that length of time; and Mrs. Dermott requested him to assume the character of teacher for the occasion. This she would at all times have preferred him to do; but he thought her gifted with a peculiar tact at imparting instruction; and then he was so liable to be called away.
It was Isabelle's turn to answer the question, but she begged her mother, who sat by her side, to do it for her; when Mr. Dermott inquired, "Wife, where is the plan of our new house?"
"In the secretary. Walter, pass it to your father."
The boy opened wide his eyes with astonishment, but immediately obeyed, while little Belle whispered to her mother, "Shan't we have any story, then?"