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Stretton, Hesba, 1832-1911

"Fern's Hollow"


All the people in Botfield wished to attend little Nan's funeral, but
Stephen would not consent to it. At first he said only Tim and himself
should accompany the tiny coffin to the churchyard at Longville; but
Martha implored so earnestly to go with them, that he was compelled to
relent. The coffin was placed in a little cart, drawn by one of the
hill-ponies, and led slowly by Tim; while Stephen and Martha walked
behind, the latter weeping many humble and repentant tears, as she
thought sorrowfully of little Nan; but Stephen with a set and gloomy
face, and a heart that pondered only upon the calamities that should
overtake his enemy.


CHAPTER XVI.
SOFTENING THOUGHTS.

But God had not forsaken Stephen; though, for a little time, He had left
him to the working of his own sinful nature, that he might know of a
certainty that in himself there dwelt no good thing. God looks down from
heaven upon all our bitter conflicts; and He weighs, as a just Judge, all
the events that happen on earth. From the servant to whom He has given
but one talent, He does not demand the same service as from him who has
ten talents.


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