follows the unquestioning acceptance of religion in its entirety. Full of faith and gratitude, Naaman returned to the man of God and laid his riches at his feet, but not a penny would Eliseus accept. There are some things that riches cannot buy or power command; certain blessings the only proper return for which is that ancient sacrifice, a humble and a contrite heart. That Naaman laid such a heart among his other treasures at the prophet's feet is clearly evident, although, being a novice in the faith of Israel, his humility was as blundering as was his pride. Doubtless he was again disappointed at not being permitted to square his account with the Lord, but it was one more reading of the lesson to him and to us, that obedience is better than sacrifice, that the Lord judgeth not as man judgeth, that if we presume to dictate to the Lord or His Church in religious matters, our efforts are likely to result in the adoration of a golden calf and the breaking of the tables of the law which the Church, like another Moses, brings down to us from the mount of God. Simon Magus sought to purchase with gold the gifts of God, and unworthy ministers of the Church have tried at times to sell God's gifts as Giezi did, with a like result. For Giezi, the prophet's servant, coveted Naaman's wealth, and after his departure, stealing out he overtook him and asked in the prophet's name for a talent of silver and two changes of raiment. Naaman forced on him double what he asked, and Giezi, returning, hid away his treasure and to Eliseus' question denied having been abroad. But the prophet said:
