"
Elsie acknowledged it all with a smile and a few kindly words, then
commanding silence by a slight motion of the hand, addressed them in a
clear, melodious voice, which, though not loud, could be distinctly heard
by every one of the now almost breathless listeners.
"I shall read to you of Jesus and some of His own words," she said, "but
first we will ask Him to help us to understand, to love, and to obey His
teachings."
Then folding her hands and lifting her eyes to the clear blue sky above,
she led them in a prayer so simple and childlike, so filial and loving in
spirit and expression, that the dullest understood it, and felt that she
spoke to One who was very near and dear to her.
After that she read with the same distinct utterance the third chapter of
John's Gospel, and commented briefly upon it. "You all want to go to
heaven?" she said, closing the book.
"Yes, Miss Elsie." "Yes missus, we all does."
"But to be able to go there you must know the way, and now I want to make
sure you do know it. Can you tell me what you must do to be saved?"
There were various answers. "Be good," "Mine de rules an' do 'bout right."
"Pray to de Lord," etc., etc.
Elsie shook her head gravely. "All that you must do, and more besides.
What does Jesus say? 'God so loved the world, that He gave His only
begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have
everlasting life.
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