"How do you do, Brother W., I am glad to see you. And where is Sister
W.?"

Sister W. was brought forward, and the preacher shook hands with them
heartily, while his face was lit up with smiles.

"I believe I am to find a home with you," he said, as if it was
settled.

Before the still embarrassed brother and sister could make reply, some
one asked:--

"How came you to be detained so late? You were expected last night.
And where is Brother R.?"

"Brother R. is sick," replied Mr. N., "and I had to come alone. Five
miles from this my horse gave out, and I had to come the rest of the
way on foot. But I became so cold and weary, that I found it necessary
to ask a farmer not far from here, to give me a night's lodging, which
he was kind enough to do. I thought I was still three miles off, but
it happened that I was very much nearer my journey's end than I
supposed."

This explanation was satisfactory to all parties, and in due time the
congregation dispersed, and the presiding elder went home with Brother
and Sister W.