"But I have nothing to give, sir, nothing at all."
"Can you not give grateful thanks and love to those around you, who so kindly look after you? And can you not give your voice and heart in prayer for those who yet know nothing of the riches of the Saviour's grace?"
"Yes," said the boy, slowly, "I can do that. And I have prayed, sir, often for uncle and Clarice."
"And God hears and answers. Your cousin tells me that it is mainly through you she has sought and found the Saviour; and your uncle is also seeking the same blessing. God is honouring you, Owen. Oh, keep always low down at His feet, and give Him all the glory. You came here wishing to gain riches, and God is giving you your desire, not in earthly coin, but in precious souls saved for all eternity. 'There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches.' God give you grace to choose the lowly and the better way at all times through life."
Mr. Sturt could not stay longer; he was only in Barmston for a short time; when Owen was strengthened and comforted by seeing his kind friend once more, and by his helpful words.
A few more weeks passed by, and Owen was able to accept a kind invitation from Farmer Netherclift to go and spend a month at Westbrook. The fresh country air, and the freedom, worked wonders for him, though his leg was still too stiff to enable him to go on the old rambling excursions that he and his friend Sam loved so much.
But they made the best use of their time together, and merry Sam learnt something of a joy he had hitherto thought little of. Owen visited all his old friends, greatly profited by Mr. Sturt's kind instructions, and at last returned to Barmston with a happy, thankful heart, resolved to be as industrious and active as possible, while yet keeping the heavenly riches foremost before his eyes; while diligent in business, to be fervent in spirit, in all things serving the Lord.
S. W. PARTRIDGE AND CO., 9 PATERNOSTER ROW, LONDON.
