THE BEAUTIFUL LADDER. 
129 
be made to find out their benefactors. Putting 
all the facts which could be obtained together, 
it was not hard for the doctor to draw the in¬ 
ference as to who these benefactors were; and 
the conviction brought a most agreeable reve¬ 
lation which quite removed the unfavorable 
impression made by the conduct of his young 
friends on the previous day. Indeed, the act 
was so exceptionally generous and delicate that 
it indicated the highest impulse of a sensitive 
nature, only needing the sanctifying influences 
of the Divine Spirit to make the generous actors 
in such a charity the truest benefactors of the 
world. Now that the latent springs of a truer 
life had been touched, a stronger hope was 
cherished that the way might be opened for 
these young pilgrims to the fountain of celestial 
wisdom and happiness. Praying for more faith 
and wisdom in his future efforts, Mr. Dean 
awaited, with an increased interest, the ap¬ 
pointed hour for the next interview. 
When gathered once more around the famil¬ 
iar table, before the regular lesson was begun. 
Doctor Dean said : 
“ Yesterday I met with a circumstance which 
makes me have a higher admiration of true no- 
1 
