I delivered my first lecture, but delivered it to rows of empty pews in Sibsey Church.

A queer whim took me that I would like to know how "it felt" to preach, and vague fancies stirred in me that I could speak if I had the chance.

I saw no platform in the distance, nor had any idea of possible speaking in the future dawned upon me.

But the longing to find outlet in words came upon me, and I felt as though I had something to say and was able to say it.

So locked alone in the great, silent church, whither I had gone to practise some organ exercises, I ascended the pulpit steps and delivered my first lecture on the Inspiration of the Bible.