Jasper County Democrat, Volume 3, Number 35, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 8 December 1900 — Too Severe a Test. [ARTICLE]

Too Severe a Test.

An eccentric clergyman in Cornwall was much annoyed by the liabit which some members of his congregation had of looking round to see late comers. After enduring it for some time he said, on entering the reading-desk one day: “Brethren, I regret to see that jour attention is called away from your religious duties by your very natural desire to see who comes in behind you. I propose henceforth to save you the trouble by naming each person who comes In late.” 4 lie then began: “Dearly beloved,” hut paused half-way to interpolate, “Mr. S., with ills wife and daughter.” Mr. S. looked greatly surprised, hut the minister, with perfect gravity, resumed. Presently he again paused: “Mr. C anil William D.” The abashed congregation kept their eyes fixed on their books. The service proceeded in the most orderly manner, the parson interrupting himself every now and then to announce some late comer. At last lie said, still with the same perfect gravity: “Mrs. S., in a new bonnet.” In n moment every feminine head in the congregation was turned.