Dr. Duff sent a native friend to invite Banerjea to his house. Blessed was the hour when the out-cast reformer crossed a Christian's threshold. Banerjea's own description of the interview must be given. "Mr. Duff received me with Christian kindness, and enquired of the state in which we all were. He openly expressed his sentiments on what we were about, and while he approved of one half of our conduct he lamented the other. He was glad of our proclamation against error, but sincerely sorry at our neglecting the truth. I told him that it was not our fault that we were not Christians; we did not believe in Christianity and therefore could not consistently profess it. The Reverend gentleman with great calmness said that it was true that I could not be blamed for my not believing in Christianity so long as I was ignorant of it, but that I was certainly guilty of serious neglect for not enquiring into its doctrines and evidences. This word enquire was so uttered as to produce an impression on me which I cannot sufficiently well describe . . . I was so struck with Mr. Duff's words that we instantly resolved to hold weekly meetings at his house for religious instruction and discussion." Persecution drove the reformer to a European lodging house, for not a native dared to shelter him. Banerjea narrowly escaped death by poison! But the former Koolin Brahman went on earnestly with his search after truth, and at length he found it. "Knock, and it shall be opened unto you." Banerjea desired to be baptised in the house of the Missionary who had led him to Christ, and was so, in the presence of many of his friends who still remained Hindus. After prayer by another clergyman, Mr. Duff thus questioned the convert:—"Do you renounce all idols, superstitions, and all the frivolous rites and practices of the Hindu religion?" To this the former Koolin Brahman replied, "I do, and I pray God that he may incline my countrymen to do so likewise." "Do you believe in God the Father and Creator of all; in Jesus Christ as your Redeemer, and in His Sacrifice as the only means whereby man can be saved; and in the sanctifying influence of the Holy Spirit?" To this Banerjea with emotion replied, "I do, and I pray God to give me grace to do His will!" Then the convert received the pure water of baptism, and the company, kneeling, engaged in prayer. Thus was gathered in Alexander Duff's second sheaf in Calcutta. ———————— CHAPTER VIII. A CONVERT'S STORY.