Ralph Connor

“ Macdonald followed her in a whisper through the petitions until they came to the words, "And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors," when he paused and would say no more. Mrs. Murray repeated the words of the petition, but still there was no response. Then the minister's wife knew that she had her finger upon a sore spot, and she finished the prayer alone.
For a time she sat silent, unwilling to probe the wound, and yet too brave to flinch from what she felt to be duty.
"We have much to be forgiven," she said, gently. "More than we can ever forgive." ”

“ But as they rode home together through the bush, where death had trailed them so closely the night before, the sweet sunlight and the crisp, fresh air, and all the still beauty of the morning, working with the memory of their saving, rebuked and soothed and comforted her, and when Ranald turned back from the manse door, she said softly: "Our Father in heaven was very good to us, Ranald, and we should be like him. He forgives and loves, and we should, too." ”

“ Mrs. Murray knew she was treading on delicate ground. The Highland pride is quick to take offense.
"Sick people, you see," she proceeded carefully, "need very frequent changes—sheets and clothing, you understand."
"Aye," said Kirsty, suspiciously.
"I am sure you have plenty of beautiful sheets, and we will change these when he wakes from his sleep." ”