On Christmas Day In The Evening

"I can't -- " said a very old man with a peaceful face -- now wearing a somewhat startled expression -- "I can't quite believe you are serious, Mr. Sewall. The people are all expecting you -- they will come out to hear you. I have not preached for -- " he hesitated -- "for many years. I will not say that it would not be -- a happiness. If I thought I were fit. But -- -- "

"If I were half as fit," answered Sewall, gently, "I should be very proud. But I'm -- why, I'm barely seasoned, yet. I'm liable to warp, if I'm exposed to the weather. But you -- with all the benefit of your long experience -- you're the sort of timber that needs to be built into this strange Christmas service. I hadn't thought much about it, Mr. Blake, till I was on my way here. I accepted the invitation too readily. But when I did begin to think, I felt the need of help. I believe you can give it. It's a critical situation. You know these people, root and branch. I may say the wrong thing. You will know how to say the right one."