"I almost wish it was, papa."

"Why? is anything troubling you, dearest?" And he pushed his book aside,
ready to give his whole attention to her.

"I am anxious about my poor people, papa; they are so ignorant of the
truths necessary to salvation; and what can I teach them in three or four
weeks? I have almost decided that I ought--that I must stay as many
months."

"And that without even consulting your father? much less considering his
permission necessary to your action?" Though the words seemed to convey
reproach, if not reproof, his tone was gentle and tender.

"No, no, papa! I must cease to think it my duty if you forbid it."

"As I do most positively, _I_ cannot stay, and I should never think for a
moment of leaving you here!"

"But, papa, how then am I to do my duty by these poor ignorant creatures?
how can I let them perish for lack of knowledge whom Christ has put into
my care?"

"Procure a chaplain, who shall hold regular services for them every
Sabbath, and do pastoral work among them through the week. You will not
grudge him his salary."

"Papa, what an excellent idea! Grudge him his salary? No, indeed; if I can
get the right man to fill the place, he shall have a liberal one. And then