Chapter III.

Te Aroha News, Volume V, Issue 234, 24 December 1887, Page 1

Chapter 111.

Gabkikl Sevioney, with his roll of sketches, entered Mrs.^ Bernard's sitting room the following evening;, little thinking of the tableaux in which he should take a part. The lady meb him cordiality, and looking over his sketches, chose some of them for her party ; then asked him to follow her to the parlour, where she wished his opinion upon a litlle scene she had composed for the occasion, The room was dimly lighted. Afc the far end, on a little stage or platform, a woman knelt as if in prayer. In the background appeared two figures, clad in while, with sUvery wings, and hands outstretched as if in blessing." Very softly, but very clearly, they began to sing, wh-lo the pianist accompanied in sweet, low notes, the following Christmas Carol :—: — " Welcome, Christ child, pure and true, Angels sin* thy natal lay: Blessed work thou hast to do, Born on holy Christmas day. " May thy blessed birth foretell Man's redemption far and wide. Angels condescend to dwell With our hearts this Christmas tide. •' Woman ! Thou art oalled of God, Blessed children thus to bear; In the steps His feet have trod, Thou must walk with holy care. " Angels bless thee, mother heart, God, the Father owns thy Jove ; Choose ye now the better part, Leading man to heaven above." Gradually the light increased, until under the full glow, there was seen a mother bending over a sleeping babe, with hands j clasped, and eyes bowed, as though en- j treating heavenly blessings for her little I one. Gabriel regarded the scene for a moment' in speechless admiration ; then, with a quick movement, advancing nearer, he gazed with intense earnestness at the beautiful young mother ; while Mrs Bernard's heart beat at a tremendous rate, and all the rest kept perfect silence. In ft voice that quivered with emotion, he exclaimed, *' Mabel ! my wife ! my love ! my little child I my little Silver Spray ! " The dark, soft eyes opeaed , the pale, eager face looked out from its sombre folds ; and with one- glad cry of recognition, Mabel Was clasped dnce more to the faithful Heart of her loved hushand. '> i « Here let u» leave tHem in the presence of this great joy, and as we sympathise with Mrs Bernard in her happy little strategy, let us also realise the truth she wishtd to illustrate— that woman's love, woman 1 * powder, woman's influence is to br'ng about tb© beautiful consummation of the promise, {s Peace on earbh, goodwill to men." ,