"I crave to become a contented man," replied the philosopher. "Never yet have I enjoyed a really peaceful day, for I have never been entirely contented. Even now, aged as I am, there is always something that I long for."
"Consider well what you ask," said the god sternly; "there is but one way in which you can secure the boon you seek."
"And what is that?" asked the philosopher eagerly.
"I must strike you dead; for in death only can man be free from discontent."
"Upon consideration," replied the philosopher, "I think I should be better contented to remain discontented."
And so saying he put on his hat and hastily withdrew from the temple.
Don't be Discouraged.
"Trust yourself to God who calls you,
Then no harm can e'er befall you;
Don't be discouraged. Do the right,
And day will chase away your night."
How she showed her Gratitude.
The present Bishop of Gibraltar, Dr. Sandford, tells the following story. When a young man, and a shy, very shy curate, he called to see an old woman among his parishioners, who complained to him that all she had to live on was half-a-crown a week which she received from the parish.