CHRISTIAN COURTESY

HARRIET DAVIES.

The writer, who was at the time the only Christian Scientist in the small country place where she had just then removed to live, received several visits from a local clergyman, a very highly esteemed and able man. Their conversation on these occasions was chiefly concerned in a discussion of the Scriptures; they differed only because of their different view-points, and invariably, when the visits came to a conclusion, they expressed themselves as mutually benefited by the amicable and edifying interchange of ideas.

During one of these friendly talks the minister volunteered the information that while going through a course of theology at a world-reputed German university, he had made a careful study of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," and said he considered much of Mrs. Eddy's teaching very elevating, though he could not accept her philosophy entirely. When, therefore, shortly after this, the Scientist heard that her kindly visitor, who had won for himself wide renown in the neighborhood as a preacher, had made use of his pulpit to denounce Christian Science, she not unnaturally felt surprised, and, just for the moment, perhaps, personally aggrieved and affronted.

Nor did surprise end at this juncture, for very soon after this hostile and intolerant denunciation, a messenger called to ask if the minister might borrow the Christian Science text-book for a little while. Her first impulse was to refuse pointblank and to stand behind a reserved and dignified silence as to the reason she found it impossible to comply with this most unexpected request. Divine Love, however, happily soon overruled this discourteous and resentful decree of personal sense and feeling, for above all things else Christian Science teaches its adherents the gospel of Love; that they are, as St. Peter taught, to "love as brethren, ... be courteous;" that "Love is reflected in love" (Science and Health, p. 17), and in kindness, courtesy, forgiveness, justice, meekness, mercy,—the unfailing prerogatives of all God's children,—and they should consider it their highest privilege and duty always to be ready to minister to those who ask for the truth.

This conclusion reached, the messenger was cordially received and forthwith stated the object of her errand, viz., that Mr.—was about to prepare a series of sermons on the spiritual interpretation of the Bible, and would be glad of Mrs. Eddy's book as a reference on the subject. It was then explained, as simply and as briefly as possible, to the lady who had undertaken the delicate mission, the deep affection and reverence in which Christian Scientists hold their text-book, the constant use to which they put it in conjunction with the Bible, both for the daily study of the Lesson-Sermon and as their guide to God, especially in times of temptation, sickness, and sorrow. Having proved it to be a healing as well as an inspiring statement of spiritual truth, they have come to think of it with a consideration kindred to that which is shown the Scripture writings; nevertheless, since Mr.—desired it for a legitimate purpose, he was indeed most welcome to the loan of it. This outspoken confession quickly changed the messenger's attitude, and she took careful possession of the text-book, promising that it should be returned as soon as possible.

The writer found much earnest work to do that day, her work consisting in the reiterated declaration and affirmation of the truth. She strove to realize that mortal man could not, in order to serve his own passing pleasure and purpose, either misconstrue or distort God's eternal word, the word of Truth. Toward evening it was the minister himself who came to restore the much prized volume. As he entered it was instantly perceived that the book had been considerately wrapped in paper and tied. The truth declared had been effective, and, sitting within the genial warmth of the fire, the clergyman paid generous tribute to the author whose inspired book he had sent to borrow. "The world owes Mrs. Eddy a far greater debt of gratitude than it is at present conscious of," he said—thoughtfully; nor did he forget to add that he considered the interpretation of the 23rd Psalm, by the Leader of the Christian Science movement, very beautiful.

Since that memorable occasion, no further adverse criticism with reference to Christian Science has fallen from the lips of the preacher, not at least, so far as the writer's knowledge goes; but at intervals his kindly visits have been repeated, and one Sunday morning not long ago, the well attended church over which he presides resounded with its zealous pastor's voice, in tones of stern vehemence, when the devout members of his congregation were thus admonished; "My beloved brethren, go home and read and study your Bibles, as the Christian Scientists do."

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CHRISTIAN SCIENCE AND SALESMEN

December 3, 1910

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