Raftsman's journal. [volume] (Clearfield, Pa.) 1854-1948, 1854-09-27

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'sBesides,'' he continued, s.duty compel
me to apprize You that the visits of Marcu:
can be no longer countenanced by myself, mol
with my appreciation, by any members of my
family. Ny reasons for this are connected
with our personal safety
| Salens said this in q kind, affcctionate man
ner but with more than ordinary firmness
| The effect was Instantly perceptible in the
| sudden rush of blood from Yertitia' face, and
in her hurried, embarrassed movements One
OF the rings was dropped on the floor; the
other, half discngaged. was left dangling in
the car--while, quickly snatching up q small
article Of dress that lay on the seat by her side,
she rushed wildly out, and fastened to her
chamber.
aldinus, after remaining seated few mo-
mcnts, cast a scornful glance around him and
rising, left the apartment in no very ceremo-
NOUS or respectful manner.
Fiducia looked sorrowfully after, while Va
lenca, signing. wiped the fast-falling tears
from her eyes.
1t is proper here to state that the Nazarencs
Ia term applied TO the early christians as
reproach, had hitherto been allowed to enjoy
their faith, and practice the few simple rites
OF their religion, with some measure of toler-
alton. True, they We're everywhere spoken
against, and traduced and illuminated but
these things their religion taught them to ex-
pect, and enabled them to endure. Recently
however, the Emperor, had passed an edict
which regarded them as rlonstrous and outlaws,
and left them at the mercy of all who chose
to lift UP their hand against them.
Hence, at this time, there was general
uneasiness among them, as well as just in
dignation against the Emperor, and necessi-
ty, on their part, for the adoption of the most
wise and precautionary measures.
But We must return again to the family
In few minutes, Fiducia, taking her
sleeping child in her arms, followed after her
sister.
She found her in her chamber seated on a
couch. In her fit of sudden emotion. she had
snatched off her gay, fancy hcad-dress; and
her hair hung in wild disorder over her face,
checks were more flushed, while upon her
lips there was curl Of indignation.
Fiducia perceived, at a glance, that there
was a strong conflict of feeling, perhaps OF
duty, on the one hand, to her parent and, on
the other, of that impetuosity of temper, and
ardor of attachment, which strongly disposed
her to take her own way. She had always been
caressed and indulged and now this first ex-
ercise of parental authority. had thrown her
into wild frenzy of passion, and awakened
feeling of resistance, if not actual resentment
Hence her hurried resolve was to do in this
affair, which she alleged concerned no one but
herself, as she chose. This determination
she had rashly formed even before her sister
had entered her chamber.
ssThis is matter of mere prudeace," said
Fiducia in a mild soothing voice.
prudence - exclaimed Vertitia, passion
ately, .sI would like to know what prudence
there is wounding the feelings of a brave and
generous young officer, and in resisting the
wishes OF ones own child"
..But it is only for the present. said Fidu-
cia, ssthc aspect of things may change for the
better, and your wishes may all be happily
consumated, with fathers good WILL
..Yes! it's all this new religion replied
Vertita, sneerngly, 81 wish it was all in the
moon wonder if the Emperor and Senate
I'll think as please, and do SO too,' she ad-
ded, rising quickly from her seat, and begin
ing to adjust her dishevelled hair.
Fiducia calmly remarked, Ssthat she was
sorry to find her so ungrateful, that she hoped
to see her think and act otherwise yet and,
with them, rejoicing in the hope of another
and better life," saying which, she quietly
withdrew to her private chamber, her child
still asleep in her arms, and the tears coursing
| freely down her checks.
| During this time, Yalens and his wife had
remained alone in the large, airy apartment.
| Valens is walking slowly up and down while
Valencia is seated, looking sorrowfully at the
| floor.
| 1t is evident from the fixed and anxious
features, that great and troubous thoughts are
revolving in the mind of Yalens.
ssAnd, supposing it should be so,'' said he,
suddenly stopping, and addressing himself to
| Valencia with unusual earnestness, ssWhat Is
your opinion thinkest thy faith would carry
| thee through !''
s.Through what 20 inquired Valencia, look
ing in surprise at Valens. 2a
s.Through ersecution-through death y
| said he.
Valencia cast her eyes upon the floor, anC
gazed for some time in thoughtful silence. A
| length raising them and fixing them upon him
she calmly said
sDeath is the passage 10 life, and l think
could make that passage at any time, and il
any way, that might be thought BEST"
Sand thou couidst then, dearest, suffer N
loss Of all things"