"I beg your pardon, but it has _not_ been the problem of the church. If the ministry had spent one-half the time in studying this question and trying to _fulfill_ the teaching of Christ, that they have wasted in quarreling over each other's opinions, or in tickling the ears of their wealthy members, this problem would have been solved long ago. Different localities would require different plans, but the purpose must always be the same. To make it possible for those in want to receive aid without compromising their self-respect, or making beggars of them, and to make it just as impossible for any unworthy person to get along without work." For some minutes the silence in the room was only broken by the steady tramp, tramp, as the speaker marched up and down. "Dick," said Charlie, "do you believe that anything could be done here?" Dick started and looked sharply at his companion. "Of course it could, if only the church would go about it in a businesslike way." Charlie shook his head. "That's hopeless. The church will never move in the matter. Brother Cameron has preached again and again on those subjects and they do nothing." "But has your pastor presented any definite plan for work?" asked Dick. "It's one thing to preach about it, and another thing to present a plan that will meet the need. That's the great trouble. They're all the time preaching about Christianity and trying to live as they talk, in a sickly, sentimental fashion; when of all things in the world Christianity is the most practical, or it is nothing." "The young folks would take it up, I am sure," said Charlie. "Say, will you suggest a plan to the Society?" "I'm like the rest," said Dick, with a slight smile. "I'm preaching when I have no remedy," and he began locking up for the night. "But," as they stepped out into the street, he added, "I'll not go back on my statement though. I believe it can be done." Nothing more was said on the subject so much in the hearts of the young men, until the Saturday before the regular monthly business meeting of the Young People's Society. Then Charlie broached the matter to Dick as together they walked down the street at the close of their day's work. "No," said Dick, "I have not forgotten, and I believe I have a plan that would meet the needs of the case as it is in this city." "Will you go before the Young People's Society at their meeting next Tuesday night, and explain your scheme?" Dick hesitated. "I fear they would not listen to me, Charlie," he said at last. And then added, as he rested his hand affectionately on the other's shoulder, "You see, old man, people here don't look at me as you do. They can't, or won't forget the way I came to town, and I fear they would not attach much weight to my opinion, even should they consent to hear me."