After the usual preliminary devotions, in which Robert Bruce "engaged,"
the business of the meeting was solemnly introduced. The only part
which Thomas Crann took in it was to expostulate with the
candle-snuffer, who being violently opposed to the wishes of the
minister, and not daring to speak, kept grumbling in no inaudible voice
at everything that came from that side of the house.
"Hoot, Richard! it's Scriptur', ye ken," said Thomas, soothingly.
"Scriptur' or no Scriptur', we're nae for't," growled Richard aloud,
and rising, gave vent to his excited feelings by snuffing out and
relighting every candle in its turn.
At length the further discussion of the question was postponed to the
next meeting, and the minister was preparing to give out a hymn, when
Thomas Crann's voice arose in the dusky space. Mr Turnbull stopped to
listen, and there fell an expectant silence; for the stone-mason was
both reverenced and feared. It was too dark to see more than the dim
bulk of his figure, but he spoke with slow emphasis, and every word was
heard.
"Brethren and office-beirers o' the church, it's upo' discipline that I
want to speak. Discipline is ane o' the main objecs for which a church
is gathered by the speerit o' God.
Pages:
744
745
746
747
748
749
750
751
752
753
754
755
756
757
758
759
760
761
762
763
764
765
766
767
768