“He drank some more of the muddy water. He was so hungry. Was there no means of escape? Must he die there with that dead lion for a companion? “He had an inspiration. With his knife he cut the lion's hide into strips. He tied these together until he had a rope. He threw it over the branch and drew himself up. The Earth looked so bright and cheerful. He threw himself upon his knees and thanked God for his deliverance. He was an educated 'fool' no longer. He had found God in that pool of muddy water, and God had sent a lion to deliver him. “How do I know that the story I have told you is true? Richard returned to his father's home. He went back to college and entered the divinity school. He became a clergyman, and he has preached to you, to-day, from the text, 'The Fool hath said in his heart that there is no God!'” CHAPTER X THE RAISED CHECK The Rev. Mr. Gay's parishioners looked at him in astonishment. He had disbelieved in God but had been converted in what seemed a miraculous manner. And yet, perhaps, after all, it was only a coincidence. Alice felt sure that Uncle Ike would be of that opinion. The pastor, as soon as he had made his sensational declaration, said “Let us pray.” His appeal was for those who doubted--that God would open their eyes--but not as his had been--to acknowledge his power and mercy. Then followed “Old Hundred.” “Praise God from whom all blessings flow, Praise Him all creatures here below.” A benediction, and the service was over. There were seats for four in the carryall. Maude preferred to walk and Mr. Merry was of the same mind. Mrs. Hawkins sat with Quincy on the front seat, and Alice with Uncle Ike. “What did you think of the sermon, Uncle Ike?” Alice asked. “A thrilling personal experience. The fear of death has a peculiar effect on some people--it kills their will power. Did Mr. Gay know that I was to attend his church?” Alice flushed. “Quincy mentioned it at the breakfast table.” “Was he informed of my opinions on religious matters?” “They were not mentioned before him.” “Another coincidence”--and Uncle Ike relapsed into silence. As they were nearing the Maxwell house, Alice asked, “Uncle Ike, are you willing to have Mr. Gay call upon you?” “I have no objection, if he will let me choose the subjects for conversation,” was the reply. In the evening Maude and Mr. Merry walked to the Willows and back. “Have you become a matchmaker?” Alice asked her husband. “What prompts the question?” “Maude and Mr. Merry have been thrown together very much. You approve of you would prevent their intimacy.” Quincy laughed. “Maude undoubtedly has a heart, but she doesn't know where it is. Mr. Merry is too sensible a fellow to imagine Maude will fall in love with him, or that he could support her if she did.” “Poor logic, Quincy. Such marriages take place often, but unless they are followed with parental blessings,--and financial backing,--seldom prove successful.