To a man's reason they may count for
little. My religious experiences are not the result of education
or temperament, but are contrary to both; and if they are imaginary,
all my experiences are imaginary. Perhaps I can best tell you what
I mean by an illustration that is a pleasant one to me. There is
a partially finished picture in your studio that I hope to hang
some day in my own sanctum at home. How shall I ever know that I
have that picture? How shall I ever know that you have given it to
me? I shall know it because you keep your promise and send it to
me. I shall have it in my possession, and I shall enjoy it daily.
Are not hope, patience, peace, when the world could give no peace,
as real as your picture? Is not the honest purpose to overcome
a nature that you know is so very faulty, as real a gift as any I
could receive? If the Friend I have found promises me such things,
and at once begins to keep his word, why should I not trust him?
But remember, you must not expect from me very much at first, any
more than did Mr. Eltinge from the little pear-tree he lifted up
and gave a chance to live. Now, with one more thought, my small
cup of theology is emptied.
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