In a full, impressive voice the clergyman began.
"Boys and girls,—yes, and teachers too,—we are strangers to-day, but we shall not continue so. I have a good memory for names and faces. I intend to know you all, every one. I have come here to be one of you, to love you, and I hope to be loved in return. My business is to lead every one in this room to the arms of the blessed Saviour, and I ask you all to help me. As many as are willing, I ask to come after school and give me your hand in token of your acceptance of this contract. Until we meet again next Sunday, I ask you to consider seriously a few questions. You can give your answers in writing if you please. I shall like that best; or you may come to me,—not in classes, but individually, and answer them.
"First. What do I come to Sunday school for,—to please God, or to please my parents, or to please myself?"
"Second. Does my coming just as I have been used to coming please God,—does it please my parents,—does it please me?"
"Third. If I neither please God, my parents, nor myself, in what way can I change my actions to do so?"
"Now, with the permission of your superintendent, I will ask you to rise and join me in one verse.
"Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost."