"So the parsons tell us, but they may be out in their judgment as well as other people. I don't believe all they say. I strike off one-half, and then there's plenty left."
"Do you ever think on the subject of death?"
"No, I don't like to think on such a gloomy subject."
"But why not, when you know you must die soon, and may die to-night?"
"And are you conscious that you are not fit to die, and yet neglect to think about it? Is it possible?"
"Why, Sir, methinks it's time enough to think about it when it comes."
"But it may come suddenly, like a thief in the night, and bear off your soul to the great world of spirits."
"If it should, then the Lord have mercy on my soul. I suppose he will, as he likes to save sinners, so the parsons say."
I then described to him the frame of mind in which I had left Mrs. Allen--his wife being present the whole of the time. He could not refrain from weeping, though he endeavoured to conceal his tears; and when I had finished, he said that he knew her very well, but as she was a Methodist, he had been prejudiced against her, but added, "If this be a sample of their religion, it is of a better sort than I imagined." And turning to his wife, he said, "Do as you like, I will never oppose thee again."
"That's the best news I have heard to-day. I'll go to chapel on Sunday."
"I hope, Sir, that you will stay and take a pot-luck dinner with us; it will be plainish fare, but a hearty welcome."
"Yes, Sir, do," said his modest-looking wife; "we have just killed a pig, and I have a nice pork pie, and some apple sauce and cream."
I thanked them both for their kindness, but declined accepting the invitation, having engaged to dine with a friend in the neighbourhood.
"Pray, Sir, if a body may be so bold, do I know your friend?"
"You do know him; and perhaps if I mention his name, you will feel a momentary embarrassment."
"I fear no man; and I don't think I have got an enemy in all these parts."
"Hollo! I sometimes talk a bit too fast; the worse luck; however, don't say what I have said. He is a gentleman; I would not offend him for the world. We live on very good terms; and a better man does not exist, and I am sure his wife is the best woman in all the parish."
I told him that he might make himself very easy, as it was not my habit to sow discord among neighbours. I promised to call again before I left, which appeared to give him pleasure.