"I don't see anything to be proud of in a brother who is a thief," murmured Sophia.
The singing had just ceased, and the minister arose to announce his text. There were others beside Sophia who started when he read:
"And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves;
for charity shall cover a multitude of sins."
Mr. Monks' eyes were fixed on the speaker during the whole discourse. He asked God to let his own truth sink deep into the heart; and he prayed that the words might be blessed to those who were so dear to him.
Monday afternoon, when the scholars were out at recess, and the teacher was examining copy books, Annie came timidly toward him. The dear child had regarded him with a kind of awe since the night she saw him weep, and did not speak until he addressed her.
"What is it, Annie? Can I help you?"
"Yes, sir," she answered, clasping her hands, her eyes sparkling. "We're going to do something splendid. May I tell you about it."
"Yes, yes, indeed."
"We're going to have a society; and we'll call it for charity. I mean we're going to try and feel kindly to everybody; and if any boy or girl speaks unkindly of any one, they'll have to be turned right out."
"Capital! I hope they'll admit me."