Seeking Contributions

An American paper states that those who go round with their contribution box in Californian churches plead and argue the case in the pews as they go along. The following dialogue, it is said, took place between one of these gentry and an honest looking miner. Parson Longsight extended the box to Bill, and he slowly shook his head. “Come, William, give something,” said the parson. – “Can’t do it,” replied Bill. – “Why not?” said the parson. “Is not the cause a good one?” – “Yes, good enough; but I am not able to give anything,” said Bill. – “Pooh! Pooh! I know you better, William; you must give me a better reason than that.” – “Well, I owe too much money; I must be just be just before I am generous, you know.” – “But, William, you owe God a larger debt than you own any one else.” – “That’s true, parson; but he ain’t pushing me like the rest of my creditors.” The argument was conclusive.

A Maiden’s Wants

A jewel of a damsel has furnished, under the signature of “Nona,” a few stanzas expressive of the outgushing desires of her blessed little innocent heart. The following is a sample. Hear the darling -

“With the blessings I have, my wants are but three -

Most simple and definite - nothing that’s wild;

I ask for no more than is needed to me -

A husband to love, a cottage, and child.”