“The question is, Mr. Strong,” said one of the other trustees, “whether this is the best way to get at it.  We do not question your sincerity nor doubt your honesty; but will your leaving the parsonage and living in a less expensive house on half your present salary help your church work or reach more people and save more souls?”

“I am glad you put it that way,” exclaimed Philip, eagerly turning to the speaker.  “That is just it.  Will my proposed move result in bringing the church and the minister into closer and more vital relations with the people most in need of spiritual and physical uplifting?  Out of the depths of my nature I believe it will.  The chasm between the Church and the people in these days must be bridged by the spirit of sacrifice in material things.  It is in vain for us to preach spiritual truths unless we live physical truths.  What the world is looking for to-day is object lessons in self-denial on the part of Christian people.”

For a moment no one spoke.  Then Mr. Winter said: 

“About your proposal that this house be turned into a refuge or home for homeless children, Mr. Strong, do you consider that idea practicable?  Is it business?  Is it possible?”

“I believe it is, very decidedly.  The number of homeless and vagrant children at present in Milton would astonish you.  This house could be put into beautiful shape as a detention house until homes could be found for the children in Christian families.”

“It would take a great deal of money to manage it.”

“Yes,” replied Philip, with a sadness which had its cause deep within him, “it would cost something.  But can the world be saved cheaply?  Does not every soul saved cost an immense sum, if not of money at least of an equivalent?  Is it possible for us to get at the heart of the great social problem without feeling the need of using all our powers to solve it rightly?”

Mr. Winter shook his head.  He did not understand the minister.  His action and his words were both foreign to the mill-owner’s regular business habits of thought and performance.

“What will you do, Mr. Strong, if the church refuses to listen to this proposed plan of yours?”

“I suppose,” answered Philip, after a little pause, “the church will not object to my living in another house at my own charges?”

“They have no right to compel you to live here.”  Mr. Winter turned to the other members of the committee.  “I said so at our previous meeting.  Gentlemen, am I not right in that?”

“It is not a question of our compelling Mr. Strong to live here,” said one of the others.  “It is a question of the church’s expecting him to do so.  It is the parsonage and the church home for the minister.  In my opinion it will cause trouble if Mr. Strong moves out.  People will not understand it.”

“That is my belief, too, Mr. Strong,” said Mr. Winter.  “It would be better for you to modify or change, or better still, to abandon this plan.  It will not be understood and will cause trouble.”