[The Spirit of the Border by Zane Grey]@TWC D-Link bookThe Spirit of the Border CHAPTER XI 8/10
Wingenund, the great power of the Delawares--indeed, the greatest of all the western tribes--maintained a neutral attitude toward the Village of Peace. But it was well known that his right-hand war-chiefs, Pipe and Wishtonah, remained coldly opposed. Jim turned all he had learned over and over in his mind, trying to construct part of it to fit into a sermon that would be different from any the Indians had ever heard.
He did not want to preach far over their heads.
If possible, he desired to keep to their ideals--for he deemed them more beautiful than his own--and to conduct his teaching along the simple lines of their belief, so that when he stimulated and developed their minds he could pass from what they knew to the unknown Christianity of the white man. His first address to the Indians was made one day during the indisposition of Mr.Wells--who had been over-working himself--and the absence of the other missionaries.
He did not consider himself at all ready for preaching, and confined his efforts to simple, earnest talk, a recital of the thoughts he had assimilated while living here among the Indians. Amazement would not have described the state of his feelings when he learned that he had made a powerful impression.
The converts were loud in his praise; the unbelievers silent and thoughtful.
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