guess that you would be glad to be rid of me by fair means or foul; yet
I have taken a liking for you, seeing in you one who from a sinner may
grow into a saint.

"This then is my magic: To love God and serve man; to eschew wizardry,
wealth, and power; to seek after holiness, poverty and humility; to
deny your flesh, and to make yourself small in the sight of men, that so
perchance you may grow great in the sight of Heaven and save your soul
alive."

"I have no stomach for that lesson," said Hokosa.

"Yet you shall live to hunger for it," answered Owen. And the wizard
went away angered but wondering.



CHAPTER IX

THE CRISIS

Now, day by day for something over a month Owen preached the Gospel
before the king, his councillors, and hundreds of the head men of the
nation. They listened to him attentively, debating the new doctrine
point by point; for although they might be savages, these people were
very keen-witted and subtle. Very patiently did Owen sow, and at length
to his infinite joy he also gathered in his first-fruit. One night as he
sat in his hut labouring as usual at the work of translation, wherein
he was assisted by John whom he had taught to read and write, the Prince
Nodwengo entered and greeted him. For a while he sat silent watching the