desire to hear more of this matter, and if one can be sent to them who
has no false tongue; who in all things fulfills the promises of his
lips, that they will hearken to him and treat him well, but that for
such as you they keep a spear.'"

"And who went after you got back?" asked Owen, who was listening with
the deepest interest.

"Who went? Do you suppose that there are many mad clergymen in Africa,
Mr. Owen? Nobody went."

"And yet," said Owen, speaking more to himself than to his guest, "the
man Hokosa was right, and the Christian who of a truth believes the
promises of our religion should trust to them and go."

"Then perhaps you would like to undertake the mission, Mr. Owen," said
the Deputation briskly; for the reflection stung him, unintentional as
it was.

Owen started.

"That is a new idea," he said. "And now perhaps you wish to go to bed;
it is past eleven o'clock."



CHAPTER II

THOMAS OWEN