I was not in those days a man of prayer, yet the germ of my father's robust faith was ever in my blood, and love teaches many a good lesson.

Certainly I felt better within my own heart for that instant of communion under the paling stars.
My head was yet bowed over the gunwale when the heavy footsteps of the Puritan sounded close at hand.

I could not fail to remark a softness in his deep voice as he spoke, resting one hand upon my shoulder.
"Thou knowest not, friend Benteen, how it gladdens my old heart to find thee before the throne of grace.

I fear thou art not greatly accustomed to look up unto God in time of trouble, yet doing so can never weaken thy arm for the moment of trial.

Acknowledge the Lord of Hosts, nor dream thou wilt ever prove less of a man because thy heart responds to His many mercies." "You speak truly," I returned soberly, feeling a new respect for him in that hour.