I know that it is asking a great deal," he continued, "but do you think you could undertake, for a while at least, to help such a lame dog as I am over the stile?
You have no idea," said the rector earnestly, "what a service you would be doing not only to me, but to my people and the church." John pulled thoughtfully at his mustache for a moment, while Mr.Euston watched his face.

"I don't know," he said at last in a doubtful tone.

"I am afraid you are taking too much for granted--I don't mean as to my good will, but as to my ability to be of service, for I suppose you mean that I should help in drilling your choir." "Yes," replied Mr.Euston.

"I suppose it would be too much to ask you to sing as well." "I have had no experience in the way of leading or directing," replied John, ignoring the suggestion, "though I have sung in church more or less, and am familiar with the service, but even admitting my ability to be of use, shouldn't you be afraid that my interposing might make more trouble than it would help?
Wouldn't your choir resent it?
Such people are sometimes jealous, you know." "Oh, dear, yes," sighed the rector.

"But," he added, "I think I can guarantee that there will be no unpleasant feeling either toward you or about you.