A Colonial Wooing
meeting did not break up. The disturbing, unearthly sounds ceased as quickly as it started; and after a few minutes' silence, Matthew Watson, without text, spoke of the responsibility of parents; of the trials of godly parents when their children were rebellious—but Ruth's patience was soon exhausted. Again the little shawl, that had been carelessly thrown down, was removed, and, as if the winds were at her command, a steadier breeze set the cord in motion, and the weird sound, loud and clear as a trumpet, swept through the room. Matthew stopped and stared, then sat down as abruptly as had Friend Bunting, and as he did so the sound ceased.
All the while John Bishop had been sitting by the open door, where he could see Ruth plainly, and not the slightest motion of her head or hands had escaped him. He alone had guessed the truth, for he was familiar with the Pearson harp. Now was revealed to him a daring on Ruth's part that surprised him. He could not approve, yet could no more condemn. He had never ventured
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