The Castlefords had a seat there, and
I was settled there in good time, looking at the few bits of stained
glass then in the east window, when, as the clergy came in from the
vestry, I beheld a familiar face, and recognised the fine
countenance and bearing of our dear old friend Frank Fordyce.
Then, looking at the row of ladies in front of me, I beheld for a
moment an outline of a profile recalling many things. No doubt,
Anne Fordyce was there, though instead of barely emulating my
stunted stature, she towered above her companions, looking to my
mind most fresh and graceful in her pretty summer dress; and I knew
that Clarence saw her too.
I had never heard Mr. Fordyce preach before, as in his flying visits
his ministrations were due at Hillside; and I certainly should have
been struck with the force and beauty of his sermon if I had never
known him before. It was curious that it was on the 49th Psalm,
meant perhaps for the fashionable congregation, but remarkably
chiming in with the feelings of us, who were conscious of an
inheritance of evil from one who had 'done well unto himself;'
though, no doubt, that was the last thing honest Parson Frank was
thinking of.
When the service was over, and Anne turned, she became aware of us,
and her face beamed all over. It was a charming face, with a
general likeness to dear Ellen's, but without the fragile ethereal
look, and all health, bloom, and enjoyment recalling her father's.
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