A buzz and mumble of surprise stopped the orator for a few moments, and he shook hands with Mr.Pill dubiously, not knowing what to think of it all, but as he was in the midst of a very effective oratorical scene, he went on.
The silent man at his side felt as if he were witnessing a burlesque of himself as he listened to the pitiless and lurid description of torment which Elder Wheat poured forth--the same figures and threats he had used a hundred times.

He stirred uneasily in his seat, while the audience paid so little attention that the perspiring little orator finally called for a hymn, saying: "Elder Pill has returned from his unexpected absence, and will exhort in his proper place." When the singing ended, Mr.Pill rose, looking more like himself than since the previous Sunday.

A quiet resolution was in his eyes and voice as he said: "Elder Wheat has more right here than I have.

I want 'o say that I'm going to give up my church in Douglass and"-- -- A murmur broke out, which he silenced with his raised hand.

"I find I don't believe any longer what I've been believing and preaching.