"
"I were but an unworthy teacher of the blessed word, had I not,"
was the simple answer. "Verily, all that I teach are my children;
there is not one crying to me for help, to whom I do not hasten
with the speed of a father flying to bring succor to his young. I
trust in God, that I have not made a difference between them; that
I heed not one to the forfeit or suffering of the other; and for
this impartial spirit toward the flock intrusted to my charge,
do I pray, as well as for the needful strength of body and soul,
through which my duties are to be done. But thou hast not yet spoken
thy name, or my ears have failed to receive it."
There was some little hesitation on the part of the youth before
he answered this second application; and a less unheeding observer
than his fellow-traveller, might have noticed an increasing warmth
of hue upon his cheek, while he was uttering his reply:--
"I am called Alfred Stevens," he replied at length, the color
increasing upon his cheek even after the words were spoken. But
they were spoken. The falsehood was registered against him beyond
recall, though, of course, without startling the doubts or suspicions
of his companion.
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