CHAPTER II.
THE MINISTER'S DOOR.
Every body knew Mr.Faber, whether he rode Ruber or Niger--Rubber and Nigger, his groom called them--and many were the greetings that met him as he passed along Pine Street, for, despite the brand of his atheism, he was popular.

The few ladies out shopping bowed graciously, for both his manners and person were pleasing, and his professional attentions were unexceptionable.

When he dropped into a quick walk, to let Ruber cool a little ere he reached his stall, he was several times accosted and detained.

The last who addressed him was Mr.Drew, the principal draper of the town.

He had been standing for some time in his shop-door, but as Faber was about to turn the corner, he stepped out on the pavement, and the doctor checked his horse in the gutter.
"I wish you would look in upon Mr.Drake, sir," he said.