For this of course he blamed the congregation, which certainly had no right to wink and snigger when he passed.
This Advent sermon however was a masterpiece, and as Mr.Lorimer lovingly fingered the pages of his manuscript he told himself that it could not fail to make an impression upon the most hardened sinner.
A low knock at the door disturbed these pleasant thoughts and he frowned.
There was an unwritten law at the Vicarage that save for the most urgent of reasons he should never be interrupted at this hour.
Softly the door opened.

Humbly his wife peeped in.
"Are you very busy, Stephen ?" His frown melted away.

Here at least was one whose appreciation was never lacking.

"Well, my dear Adelaide, I think I may truthfully say that the stress of my business is fairly over.

You may come in." She crept in, mouse-like, and a distant burst of music wafted in with her, causing her to turn and quickly close the door.
"Have you finished your sermon, dear?
Can we have a little talk ?" she asked him nervously.
He stretched out a large white hand to her without rising.