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Chapter VII

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Chapter IX

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CHAPTER VIII

I GO TO CHURCH

It must not be supposed that my life was altogether prosaic and practical, for many enjoyable episodes were interspersed as I traveled onward.

My business again called me to Wilmington in May, and one morning a gentleman's card was handed me. I went into the parlor and met a stranger. After introducing himself, he said: 'Mrs. Person, I am one of the stewards in Dr. Yates' church, and, at the suggestion of several members of his congregation, I have called on you. We have read his attack upon you, and we wish to express our disapproval of it. He should never have done what he did, and we want you to know that his congregation denounces the act. I have heard but one sentiment and that was in your behalf." Before leaving, he said: "If I can serve you in any way, Mrs. Person, command me". Quick as the lightning's flash came the uttered thought. "I accept your offer--you can serve me. Tomorrow will be Sunday and I shall go to hear the Reverend Dr. Yates preach. Will you render me the kindness to let him know it. To let him know that it is I, sitting right in front of him, looking right at him, listening right to him, standing in God's pulpit, expounding God's gospel?

"I have a curiosity to see the Reverend gentleman posing in his professional character, but it would not do me any good unless he could know it."

My visitor laughed and said: "Well, I cannot blame you; I think I should feel so myself".

I told him I should go up the middle aisle to about four seats from the pulpit, and he promised to let him know.

And the next day I did go, and I did walk up the middle aisle, and I got a choice seat, where I could have a good view of him, and he knew who was looking at him, and listening to him preach "good will on earth". I wouldn't have had to preach that sermon for a good deal more than he got for it. And his prayer! I can never forget it. In his stentorian voice he prayed: "God grant that every one who has entered the holy sanctuary of God this day may have been prompted hither by pure and holy motives!"

"AMEN", said I, in tones equally stentorian.

Revenge is sweet, and it was mine.

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