One of the lamps smoked, and Mr.Bent rose to turn it down, and a deeper gloom settled upon the group.

Mr.Johnson nervously opened a hymn-book, and began to turn the pages.

For a moment the rustle of the paper was the only sound that broke the quiet.
John Ward, appalled and angry, humiliated that his most sacred grief was dragged from his heart to be gazed at and discussed by these men, was yet silenced by his accusing conscience.
"There is no need," he said at last, with painful slowness, and breathing hard, "to bring this matter before the Session.

As preacher of this church, I prefer to deal with that soul according to the wisdom God gives me.

I neither ask nor desire your advice." Elder Dean turned to his companions, and raised his hands slightly.