" He gave no pledge, but a weeping voice said, "Let me
pray." The hand was withdrawn, and he passed into the adjoining
room, whence soon issued a low voice, that Miss Fiske could hardly
yet believe was prayer. The bell rung for meeting, and she sent her
precious charge alone, while she staid to watch the man whose
previous character and conduct led her to fear that he was only
feigning penitence in order to plunder the premises undisturbed. She
staid till a voice seemed to say, What doest thou here, Elijah? then
went and took her place in the chapel; soon the door opened again
very gently, and Deacon Guwergis entered; but how changed! His gun
and dagger were laid aside; the folds of his turban had fallen over
his forehead; his hands were raised to his face; and the big tears
fell in silence; he sank into the nearest seat, and laid his head
upon the desk. After Mr. Stoddard had pronounced the blessing, Miss
Fiske requested Mr. Stocking to see Deacon Guwergis.
He took him to his study, and there, in bitterness of soul, the
recent blasphemer cried out, "O my sins! my sins! they are higher
than the mountains of Jeloo.
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