Voices from Creation

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1883. Excerpt: ... I HE Parish of Stainemoore is situated in a lovely part of the South of England; but at the time of which I am writing, which is some years since, it had acquired the unpleasant nickname of Stagnantmoore, from the dead-alive state it was in, especially as regarded religion. Many, however, in the neighbourhood hoped that better days were in store for this benighted place, when Dr. Holdfast accepted the living. He was a widower with one child, an invalid daughter of sixteen, whom he hoped that pure country air might restore to health. And he sits in his study, on the day that this story begins, full of loving plans for his as yet unknown parishioners, for his heart warms towards them already. Even the sad sight of the dilapidated old Church, with its rotten high pews, and hideous galleries, has not discouraged Dr. Holdfast; he dreams of the time when it shall have become more worthy of its name of House of God, and when a crowd of worshippers shall join in hymning their Maker's praise, accompanied by the peals of a glorious organ. A pleasant daydream indeed, as so many are that we indulge in; but how unreal and weakening such dreams too often prove! We awake disappointed and enervated; we who should never sleep at our post, but buckle to our armour steadily, constantly, till we come to the Light of Day. The good Pastor's reverie was interrupted by the entrance of the old-fashioned Parish Clerk. Quite a picture of an old man was Benson, with his snow-white locks, and venerable mien, and the very sight of him seemed to encourage the Doctor's dream. How noble would he look among the oak sittings, and the glorious stained windows! Benson, Dr. Holdfast began, I want you to tell me all about this parish. I, as a stranger, can see a great deal amiss; but, ...