.

God did give Eve to Adam." "Laddie, why do ye speak with fear and a faltering voice?
Did I say aught against that gracious gift or the holy mystery of love, which is surely the sign of the union betwixt God and the soul, as is set forth after a mystical shape in the Song of Songs?
But it was not for me--no, not for me.

I complain not, neither have I vexed my soul.

He doeth all things well." "But, dear Rabbi"-- and Carmichael hesitated, not knowing where he stood.
"Ye ask me why"-- the Rabbi anticipated the question--"and I will tell you plainly, for my heart has ever gone forth to you.

For long years I found no favour in the eyes of the Church, and it seemed likely I would be rejected from the ministry as a man useless and unprofitable.