"Well," said Uncle Bobbie, "let's fix it that way. Brother Wickham,
we have decided to ask Richard Falkner to take charge of the rooms."
"I've got nothing to say about it, sir," answered the good deacon. "I
don't know anything about it. I wash my hands of the whole matter."
And so the work at the Jerusalem Church was established. It took no
little power of persuasion on the part of Charlie Bowen, to bring his
friend to the point of accepting the committee's offer, even when it
was endorsed by the entire Young People's Society, and a large part
of the congregation. But his arguments finally prevailed and Dick
consented to be at the rooms between the hours of seven and eleven
every evening, the time when a strong, tactful man in authority would
be most needed.
The rooms were furnished by friends of the cause and were cheery,
comfortable, homelike apartments, where everyone was made welcome.
Many a poor fellow, wandering on the streets, tired of his lonely
boarding house, and sorely tempted by the air of cheerfulness and
comfort of the saloons, was led there, where he found good books and
good company; and at last, for what was more natural, became a regular
attendant at the only church in the city which did not close its doors
to him during the week.
Dick enjoyed the work, and in a short time had many friends among the
young men. He treated everybody in the same kindly, courteous manner,
and was always ready to recommend a book, to introduce an acquaintance,
or to enter into conversation with a stranger.
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