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which he was held, as a man of sound principles and rising talent. Above all, he thanked God that his dear sister was blessed with the society of an affectionate husband; and that God seemed indeed to "lift up the light of His countenance upon them." Herbert had renewed also many old friendships and acquaintances, and had learned much that was going on, both in the religious and political world. And now he was returning with undiminished zeal to resume the pastoral charge of "those few sheep which he had left in the wilderness." His thoughts were beginning to revert to their accustomed channels; and, as the coach whirled him through the streets, his meditations oscillated pleasantly between London and his dear Welbourne.

He was not destined, however, to enjoy his meditations uninterruptedly. The coachman drew up at a public house in the suburbs, and inquired if Mr. Owen was there? whereupon a respectable-looking middle-aged gentleman, who was poring over a newspaper at the bow-window of the travellers' room, hastily gulped down the remains of his brandy and water, and having paid his reckoning, came forth with his carpet-bag and great coat, and took his seat opposite to Mr. Herbert.

Herbert was not altogether displeased with the commercial business-like face of his companion; which, if not of the most refined and intellectual order, indicated a considerable degree of shrewdness and honest independence. Though he would have been better satisfied to have continued his solitary meditations, yet he was too courteous and good-natured to check the advances of his fellow-traveller, albeit certainly not of the most polished kind. Mr. Owen was one of those inquisitive persons who like to know who they are in company with, how far their fellow-travellers are going, what is their profession, and all about them; and he soon ascertained, by direct interrogation, that Mr. Herbert was a clergyman of the Church of England. Upon which he announced himself to be a Dissenter, and manifested a perfect readiness to enter into a theological discussion, and settle their respective creeds. But his manner was so irreverent, his observations so wide of the mark, and his religious opinions, at least respecting the Church, so manifestly derived from political periodicals, that Mr. Herbert thought it hopeless to argue with such an opponent, and very quietly took a pamphlet from his pocket, and began to read.

But Mr. Owen had no delight in meditation; his mind was rather of a practical than a contemplative turn; and he was evidently annoyed by the silence of his fellow-traveller. Unfortunately the pamphlet itself furnished opportunity for discussion, as it bore the title of "Unity of the Church," in large letters on the back.

"It would indeed be a great blessing (said the Dissenter) if we could restore unity to the Church."

“Indeed it would, sir (said Mr. Herbert drily, again resuming his pamphlet, which he had only for a moment laid aside)."

"How is it possible (said the Dissenter, after travelling about ten miles farther), to live in unity, while English Churchmen insist on unchurching their Christian brethren for such trifling differences."

"If those Christian brethren, of whom you speak, (replied Mr. Herbert,) would give up their trifling differences, and return to the bosom of the Church."

Mr. Owen was not immediately prepared with

an answer, so that Herbert had time civilly to get back to his pamphlet before another question was asked him.

At length they approached Oxford, and looked down from Headington on the domes and spires of that ancient city, resting below them in calm serenity. What a contrast to the busy streets of the metropolis, which they had so lately left! There all was bustle and anxiety—a crowd of anxious persons passing and repassing each other, with business inscribed on every feature, business depicted on every limb. Here the pale student, or the grave professor, pacing leisurely down the High-street, or extending their walk to the adjacent country. Not that animation was wanting to the scene; for there was the gay face of youth; and many knots of under-graduates might be seen, just released,—for it was about the middle of the day,-from the lecture room and the study, and hastening forth on foot or horseback, in parties of twos or threes, to their respective amusements. Herbert was reminded of the happy days of youth, and thought on many a dear friend, some, alas! no more, some gone forth to the busy world, some still lingering at the University; and he would have gladly rested on his journey to inquire after those

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amongst his contemporaries who sojourned amidst those abodes of learning. But his duties forbade him to stay, and he was whirled rapidly through his old home, with a mixed feeling of regret and interest.

Very different were the cogitations of his companion; and they had scarcely passed the stones, when he began to give vent to them. For Herbert, having finished his pamphlet, was left a defenceless victim of his pertinacious assailant.

I never can pass through Oxford (said Mr. Owen) without wondering at the useless waste of capital expended in those old monkeries. I cannot bear to look at those idle gownsmen. A set of drones! I should like to see them set to some useful work.

HERBERT.

I can assure you that these old monkeries, as you call them, are by no means so useless as you seem to imagine. Our ablest and most learned men have been educated at this and the sister university.

MR. OWEN.

Mis-educated, you mean; crammed with use

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