Spirit of the age. [volume] (Woodstock, Vt.) 1845-1913, 1884-11-12

Atoll young man, neatly dressed adj
yanccd.
"Who are youP" demanded John
Sumpter.
civilian Lockwood"
"An' what doyou want in the District?
an why do you come here an poster
us when we are at Worship"
~ haven't time now, my good man,
to answer all your questions, which are
no doubt in order and perfectly natural.
] am methodist minister Conference
has granted me the gratifying privilege
to 60 around and preach the gospel
where it is most needed. | have tray
eled around great deal and am fortu-
nate in finding this place. Stand aside
q few moments and will proceed to
| dedicate the house to true worship"
"You git outcn here" demanded sew
eral voices. "You amt got no business
a-tamperin' with u.s."
brother Simmons, give us another
tune" said John Sumptcr, addressing
the leader of the choir.
"llold ONT demanded the Methodist
preacher. ave are commanded to
preach the gospel to every living crea-
ture, Youare living creatures, although
you attempt to impress u stranger with
the idea that you are not. | don't want
any trouble, but Pm going to preach in
this house. To further my plans and
to increase the respect which know
this congregation has for me, | will
state that am regarded rs the best
pistol shot in the state" and he drew
couple of revolvcrs, and advancing to
the table, he showed John Sumpter's
hymn book aside and deposited his
weapons. 81 would advise my hearers
that in order to enjoy that exuberance
of health which kind Providence has
bestowed, not to leave this house until
the benedction is pronounced. Hold
on, and he cooked n pistol and leveled
it at man vino rose "Sit down" And
the man sat down.
iii any Of the women desire to leave
they can do so. Women have never
had an equal chance with men, but on
this occasion have decided to grant
them special privileges. Having thus
explained, will proceed with my SER
mon.
The men were 30 mystiied by the
boldncSs of the stranger that they sat
and ga2ed at him. He took text and
proceeded at once 10 cXpound his views
on the subject. He told them how they
were violating the laws of God and man
by their eXclusivcnc5S, and denounced
them for bringing up thOir children in
ignorance OF the world.
"Ill be blamed if | can stand this"
exclaimed John Sumpter, arising and
turning upon the preacher. Several
others, emboldencd by their leader also
arose.
Stand back, gentlemen" said the
preacher. You know am telling
you the truth'
You are Il liar shouted JEFF
Magic.
lies not Liar" exclaimed voice,
and John Sumptcr's daughter, who had
been sitting with her face buried in her
hands. advanced with = majesty which
caused the men to fall back.
YOU i.amuth," exclaimed John
Sumptcr. "What do you mean?,'
just what say. You know that
we have all been raised in ignorance
You know it and cannot deny it and
tell the truth.
my good girl" said the preacher
not in the least abashed, extending his
hand. .! told you would come here
Now am here. and with your help can
accomplish much.
you Shall have my help
We'll, sit down like the good girl
you are, and let me huish my aermon
for fear the congregation will become
impatient"
The congregation remained quiet du-
ring the remainder of the discourse, and
when the bencdction was pronounced,
every man arose and quietly walked
away.
John SumPter,' said jeff maggie.
"Yes, .!etf'
That's what made her nope. >"
THAT is what made her NOPE, jeff"
"When she was away she seed him
an fell in love with him an told him
to come here.
~ n,- nl,.;; ! j',.