"No," he said at last, moving his dry lips with a visible effort, "we cannot conquer sin by hiding it or forgetting it, and I believe that this Session has the welfare of the church sincerely at heart; but I do not believe the plan you propose will profit either the church or the soul of whom you speak.
Her absence at present would, at all events, make it necessary to defer any action.

In the mean time, I believe that the Lord will teach me wisdom, and will grant grace and peace to her whose welfare is the subject of your prayers.

If I reach any conclusion in the matter which you ought to know, I will communicate with you.

If there is no further motion, this meeting is adjourned." The elders rose, and with the exception of Mr.Johnson, retreated in embarrassed haste.

They ducked their heads, and made a guttural noise in their throats, as though to say good-night; but they were ashamed to speak to him, though Mr.Bent said as he turned his back on the preacher, "We'll--ah--pray for her." Mr.Johnson stopped to justify his presence, and say again, "Don't notice it, Mr.Ward.