“Have you? I will tell Austin when he comes, for he will not stay away from the children long. I think it is the mission that keeps him there for one thing. He hates to leave the people, and he has a Sunday-school class.”
“Do tell him to come. We shall be glad to have him with us.”
“Mrs. Hilman, Austin is here already. I saw him over in town last night and told him about your meeting, and he said to tell you he would be there without fail next Sunday,” said Will, when he saw her a few days later.
When the Hilmans went to church the next Sunday, they saw a strange young man in one of the rear benches. At once they recognized him as a brother of Wilbur Hill. As it was early, not yet time to begin the service, they went to him to make his acquaintance.
“Is this Austin Hill?” asked Mother Hilman in her kindest tones.
“My name is Hilman. Your brother Will has been telling me about you,” she continued in her friendly tones.
“Yes, he told me some of the stuff he has been telling you. It makes me feel foolish. But I am glad to meet you anyway,” said Austin, blushing.
“You have your brother’s confidence and that is a good recommendation for any Christian,” said Mrs. Hilman, pleased with his humility.
“He said you were a believer in spiritual Christianity.”
“Yes, I have been worshiping with a band of spiritual people, though I joined and still have my letter with the church where I was converted.”
“Can you take dinner with us today? If you can, we might talk of some of these things,” said the kind old lady.
“Thank you; I shall be glad to do so,” said Austin, whose heart longed for just the kind, Christian counsel he believed this mother would give.
The past week had been a weary one for Austin. He had found it harder than ever to get along with his father. The conflict between them became more marked all the time. They did not quarrel, but the father let no opportunity pass to give Austin to understand his disapproval of and disdain for his religion, while Austin had to fight continually the feeling of disrespect and contempt for his father. The family was preparing to move to the country. This was welcome news to Austin, who found managing them in town more than he could do. He was almost discouraged with trying to teach the children right. His visit with the Hilman’s was a great pleasure. After the good Sunday dinner Mother Hilman sat down with her young guest in the front room, and they talked of those things that were nearest both their hearts.