There was not the holy flame in the young clergyman's own heart to
ignite other souls; but his strong magnetism was perceptible to all,
and they did not realise the difference. And meantime the church
grew and prospered amazingly.
It was observed by the congregation of St Blank's Church, shortly
after the advent of the new rector, that a new organist also occupied
the organ loft; and inquiry elicited the fact that the old man who
had officiated in that capacity during many years, had been retired
on a pension, while a young lady who needed the position and the
salary had been chosen to fill the vacancy.
That the change was for the better could not be questioned. Never
before had such music pealed forth under the tall spires of St
Blank's. The new organist seemed inspired; and many people in the
fashionable congregation, hearing that this wonderful musician was a
young woman, lingered near the church door after service to catch a
glimpse of her as she descended from the loft.
A goodly sight she was, indeed, for human eyes to gaze upon. Young,
of medium height and perfectly symmetry of shape, her blonde hair and
satin skin and eyes of velvet darkness were but her lesser charms.
That which riveted the gaze of every beholder, and drew all eyes to
her whereever she passed, was her air of radiant health and
happiness, which emanated from her like the perfume from a flower.
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