“With the Jew, every Gentile will presently be compelled to accept Antichrist, and the Roman Beast——”
A sound of protest was heard from a seat near the pulpit, as the Bishop spoke of the “Roman Beast.” But the preacher took no note of the interruption and went on:—
“The Devil will be so mad at being cast down out of heaven, and because he knows such a very limited time to work against God, that he will call up all hell to stamp out God’s people.”
For one instant the Bishop paused. He leaned over the pulpit edge, his eyes were full of the light of a holy determination, but into his voice there crept a tender yearning, as he continued:—
“Are we prepared for actual martyrdom? For this will certainly be the fate of many who will not bear about upon them the mark of the Beast.”
Again there came a growl from that seat near the pulpit. But the most solemn hush rested upon the vast mass of people.
CHAPTER XXX.
CONCLUSION.
Quietly, giving the impression that the sense of a great shame rested upon him, the Rev. —— —— the noted popular Nonconformist minister rose from his seat and faced the congregation.
Many of his own church were there. Many others, who had followed the criticisms of the more spiritual-toned Christian papers, upon his pulpit and other utterances, were there. Every one waited breathless, wondering what contribution he would make to the great matter in hand.