When the ballots were all in and counted it was announced that all whose names were presented were unanimously elected except that of the sexton.

There were twelve votes against him, but twenty-six for him, and Philip declared that, according to the constitution of the church, he was duly elected.

The meeting then went on in the usual manner characteristic of preparatory service.

The sexton had been present in the back part of the room, and at the close of the meeting, after all the rest had gone, he and Philip had a long talk together.

When Philip reached home he and Sarah had another long talk on the same subject.