PART 5.
Charles! I will never be able to describe to you how I felt at that moment. Here was a stranger, but a brother in the Lord, who in that hour of temptation prayed for me when I was alone and felt so forsaken. I was deeply moved and could only say: ‘Do you mean, Mr. W— that you prayed for me at that time?’
‘Yes,’ was his reply, ‘the Lord had laid it on my heart, and, I doubt not, heard my cries. But I have not yet finished telling you. This morning I went to the house of your parents, and later on to your landlord, and the latter promised to wait two weeks longer with the selling of the furniture. After this I hastened to High street, feeling still uneasy about you. The rest you know. And now I beg of you to be open to me, tell me all your experience, and what you have gone through. How much I am interested in you and your welfare you can see, and therefore tell me all.’
How could I close my heart to such a man as this? I told him the whole account, for I felt I had found in him a real friend. He was indignant when he learnt how my employer had acted.
‘How much is your salary?’ he asked me. After telling him he said, ‘Would you like to take a position in which you could earn double the amount you have named?’
You will easily understand, dear Charles, with what joy I would accept such an offer. Then after a pause in which Mr. W— seemed to reflect, he said, ‘I have never made it my business to meddle in other peoples’ affairs; but in this case it seems to be unavoidable. Will you please wait a little here till my return? I’ll excuse you to your employer.’
With hasty steps he left the room, to return again after about a half hour’s absence. With a friendly smile he reached his hand to me, saying as he did so: ‘You need not go back to your office. Come to me tomorrow and I will give you employment. And now go quickly to your parents’ house, take also this hundred-dollar bill which your employer has given me for you. God speed, till tomorrow.’
So saying, my friend disappeared, while I stood on the spot amazed. I felt as if a ton weight had been removed from me. With hasty steps I went home. I could have shouted aloud, and desired to tell all whom I passed how the Lord had dealt with me. Arriving at home, what glad surprise awaited me there! The selling of the furniture had indeed been postponed for two weeks; moreover, Mr. W— had ordered a large stock of provision to be sent to the house, so that instead of being in need, we had abundance. Truly the Lord had shown that His arm was not shortened. He gave more than we could ask or think. How great is His love!
And now, dear Charles, my story is ended. Many years I remained, as you know, with my benefactor; first as his bookkeeper, then as a partner in his business, and finally as his son-in-law. My dear Charles, the Lord grant, that, when the temptations of this world and the devil come near you, you may be kept by the power of His grace.”
ML 03/06/1904