weapon it is, you will soon feel the weight of it,” said he, brandishing it over my head. “My good father,” said I, “do you remember, since nothing else will restrain you, that the laws of the country will not recognize such horsewhip Christianity?” “The laws of the country. Oh, God help it for a country! Yes! yes! excellent. Here Michael--I say, come here--drive out this follow. I'll be calm; I'll not, put myself in a passion--out with him! this fellow.” On turning round to contemplate the person spoken to, we recognized each other as slight aquaintances. “Bless me,” said he, “what's the matter? Why,” he added, addressing me, “what's this?” “How? do you know him, Michael?” “Tut, I do--isn't he for the mission?” “Oh--ho!--is that it? well, I'm glad I know so much; good-bye to you, for the present; never fear but I'll keep my eye upon you.” So saying, we separated. Michael followed me out. “This is an awkward business,” said he, “you had better make submission, and ask his pardon; for you know he can injure your prospects, and will do so, if you don't submit; he is not of the most forgiving cast--but that's between ourselves.” “What o'clock is it?” said I. “Near three.” “Well, good-bye, and God bless you; if he had a spark of humanity in him, I would beg his pardon at once, if I thought I had offended him; but as to making submission to such a man, as you call it--why--this is a very sultry day, my friend.” I returned directly to the old man and his son; and, let purity or motive go as it may, truth to tell, they were no losers by the priest's conduct; as I certainly slipped them a few additional shillings, out of sheer contempt for him. On tasting a little refreshment in one of the cabins, the son fainted--but on the whole they were enabled to accomplish their journey home; and the father's blessing was surely a sufficient antidote against the Priest's resentment.