Clergy -- Canada -- Fiction; Russo-Japanese War, 1904-1905 -- Fiction
Some very amusing incidents occurred during the performance of the
marriage ceremony. One man, who had previously been received into the
Church, and who was asked the question, "Will you renounce the world,
the flesh and the evil one?" the answer of which was, "I renounce them
all," was asked, "Will you have this woman to be your wedded wife, for
better, for worse, in sickness and health, till death you do part?" and
in his excitement, having the membership reception in mind, he said, "I
renounce them all." On another occasion, while a couple were being
yoked together, the groomsman suddenly leaned over and saluted the
bride instead of the groom, to the infinite amusement of all present,
and causing the face of the latter to take on a crimson hue.
CHAPTER II.
_MR. MELVIN'S MARRIAGE AND TEACHINGS._
It was rumored for some time that the minister of Mount Zion, or the
incumbent, or pastor, or whatever you desire to call him, was in the
habit of visiting a certain young lady in a distant town. Now there
were many fine young ladies belonging to the tabernacle, but as
distance seemed to lend merit and attractiveness, its spiritual head
found his choice elsewhere. Although not a graduate, Miss Spencer was
a well-read young lady of refined instincts and excellent character;
she had taught school for some time, and was of French ancestry. In
commenting afterward upon his choice, Mr. Melvin said that as a
Canadian he saw that one of the most important steps in nation building
was to unify, as far as possible, the different races and creeds in
this country, and he was one of those who were setting the pace.
When Mrs. Melvin was brought home, after a very interesting ceremony at
the Spencer homestead, the people were charmed with her and the
tabernacle congregation gave her a splendid reception.
The minister's wife in every way justified the good opinion formed of
her at first sight. She was a quiet, unobtrusive Christian, with a
sympathetic nature, which soon brought her in touch with the poor and
afflicted in the community. Many a basket prepared by her own hand
found its way into the homes of want, and many a visit was made which
comforted and cheered the anguished sufferer, and which tended to turn
the hour of sorrow into one of joy. Mrs. Melvin proved herself an
angel of mercy in Carsville, and frequently relieved her husband by
taking charge of a service of praise, or by preaching a sermon in
connection with the Sabbath service. Her work as a teacher had made
her a fluent, impressive and logical speaker, who was always acceptable
to the people.
Mr. Melvin now saw that the time was ripe for moulding public opinion
along not only spiritual but national lines, and he did not even
consult the politicians concerning the matter, but as a teacher applied
himself resolutely to the task.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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