.

"What should such creatures as I do, crawling between earth and heaven ?" A thousand thousand such as Mr.Simeon had listened or lifted their voice to its anthems--had aspired for the wings of a dove, to fly away and be at rest.

Where now were all their emotions?
He entered by a side-door of the western porch.

The immense, solemn nave, if it did not catch his thoughts aloft, at least hushed them in awe.

To Mr.Simeon Merchester Cathedral was a passion, nearer, if not dearer, than wife or children.
He had arrived ten minutes ahead of the appointed time.