But having turned his face from the light , Dan found the downward way easy , and took a grim satisfaction in the prospect of a general outbreak during which he might revenge himself upon the tyrannical warden , and strike a blow for his own liberty , feeling that an hour of insurrection would be a welcome vent for the pent-up passions that tormented him . He had tamed many a wild animal , but his own lawless spirit was too much for him , till he found the curb that made him master of himself . The Sunday before Thanksgiving , as he sat in chapel , Dan observed several guests in the seats reserved for them , and looked anxiously to see if any familiar face was there ; for he had a mortal fear that someone from home would suddenly confront him . No , all were strangers , and he soon forgot them in listening to the chaplain 's cheerful words , and the sad singing of many heavy hearts . People often spoke to the convicts , so it caused no surprise when , on being invited to address them , one of the ladies rose and said she would tell them a little story ; which announcement caused the younger listeners to pack up their ears , and even the older ones to look interested ; for any change in their monotonous life was welcome . The speaker was a middle-aged woman in black , with a sympathetic face , eyes full of compassion , and a voice that seemed to warm the heart , because of certain motherly tones in it . She reminded Dan of Mrs Jo , and he listened intently to every word , feeling that each was meant for him , because by chance , they came at the moment when he needed a softening memory to break up the ice of despair which was blighting all the good impulses of his nature . It was a very simple little story , but it caught the men 's attention at once , being about two soldiers in a hospital during the late war , both badly wounded in the right arm , and both anxious to save these breadwinners and go home unmaimed . One was patient , docile , and cheerfully obeyed orders , even when told that the arm must go . He submitted and after much suffering recovered , grateful for life , though he could fight no more . The other rebelled , would listen to no advice , and having delayed too long , died a lingering death , bitterly regretting his folly when it was too late . ` Now , as all stories should have a little moral , let me tell you mine , ' added the lady , with a smile , as she looked at the row of young men before her , sadly wondering what brought them there . ` This is a hospital for soldiers wounded in life 's battle ; here are sick souls , weak wills , insane passions , blind consciences , all the ills that come from broken laws , bringing their inevitable pain and punishment with them , There is hope and help for every one , for God 's mercy is infinite and man 's charity is great ; but penitence and submission must come before the cure is possible . Pay the forfeit manfully , for it is just ; but from the suffering and shame wring new strength for a nobler life . The scar will remain , but it is better for a man to lose both arms than his soul ; and these hard years , instead of being lost , may be made the most precious of your lives , if they teach you to rule yourselves . O friends , try to outlive the bitter past , to wash the sin away , and begin anew . If not for your own sakes , for that of the dear mothers , wives , and children , who wait and hope so patiently for you . Remember them , and do not let them love and long in vain . And if there be any here so forlorn that they have no friend to care for them , never forget the Father whose arms are always open to receive , forgive , and comfort His prodigal sons , even at the eleventh hour . ' There the little sermon ended ; but the preacher of it felt that her few hearty words had not been uttered in vain , for one boy 's head was down , and several faces wore the softened look which told that a tender memory was touched .
XXXXX was forced to set his lips to keep them steady , and drop his eyes to hide the sudden dew that dimmed them when waiting , hoping friends were spoken of .
Dan Father Jo breadwinners hour penitence right sakes war years