PREFACE TO MOTHERS. DEAR FRIENDS, Do you not often look back fondly on those happy days when your children clustered round your knee, and you taught them the sweet "story of old," of the Birth of the Babe in Bethlehem? You can never forget the upturned faces, and the look in those saddened eyes as you told them of the Saviour's life on earth, and of His cruel death. You remember, too, their interest in other parts of Scripture-the unending charm of Noah and his wearied dove, the sympathy with Joseph in the pit, and their love for the baby Moses. Then as they grew older, the deeds of Gideon and Samson attracted your boys, and the stirring histories of Judah's and Israel's kings rivetted their attention; your girls lovingly followed Ruth into the cornfields, or were roused to noble deeds as they listened to Queen Esther's brave words. These were happy days, but they passed away. while A time came, you |