18: ' \ ROBERT DAWSON

themselves up to the influence of the wicked one! How
many have been urged and almost persuaded to choose
the strait and narrow path. that leads to life eternal,
who at the first sight of a cross to be borne,.or a darling
sin to be forsaken, cr a bad habit to be broken, have
shrunk back with that irresolute and cowardly “ J can-
not /”

“T like can best; I will try to be caz,” and my slate
and pencil began to be in motion again.

Hark | The front door opened, and my father’s step
was heard in the entry.

“What, my son, up still!” he exclaimed on entering:
“T hope the lesson is well learned. I suppose it must
be by this time.”

“T am waiting for you to help me, father;” and I
would have given much not to have’ been obliged: to
say it. He put on his slippers and sat down by the
fire.’

“Well, Robert,” said he, indy: “what are your

difficulties? Let us hear them.” .

Then he looked at the sum and heard all I had to