"I hardly consider myself a competent adviser in matters of church polity," he admitted, "yet I have always been informed that all so desiring are to be made welcome in religious fellowship." "Theoretically, yes." And the minister stopped still in the road, facing his companion.

"But this special case presents certain peculiarities.

The applicants, as I learn from others, are not leading lives above reproach.

So far as I know, they have never even attended church service until last Sunday, and I have some reason to suspect an ulterior motive.

I am anxious to put nothing in the way of any honestly seeking soul, yet I confess that in these cases I hesitate." "But your elders?
Do not they share the responsibility of passing upon such applications ?" The flush on Mr.Wynkoop's cheeks deepened, and his eyes fell.
"Ordinarily, yes; but in this case I fear they may prove unduly harsh.
I--I feel--that these applications came through the special intercession of a certain young lady, and I am anxious not to hurt her feelings in any way, or to discourage her enthusiasm." "Oh, I see! Would you mind telling me the names of the two gentlemen ?" "Mr.John Moffat and Mr.William McNeil.