of St. Michael slaying the dragon is even better, and Raphael's spirited composition is an admirable illustration from which to tell the story. St. Michael is described in the book of Revelation as one of the archangels, the warrior who leads the angelic hosts to victory in the great conflict between the powers of light and the powers of darkness (Rev. IX, 7). Swift as a flash of lightning is his motion through space, his aim is unfailing, his arm powerful. At his coming the Evil One falls prostrate and writhing, his courage vanishes—for he is really a coward; he knows there is no hope for him, the end has come. With one strong, sure stroke the avenging spear does its work, and the enemy is put down forever. No anger mars the victor's serene countenance, for his is a holy cause. His face shines with heavenly glory. He is eager to be on his way as a messenger of peace rather than an avenger. The world beyond is waiting for him, and he scarcely pauses for his work; his wings are spread, and his body poised for immediate flight. And so we, having put down once and for all the tempting thought, go on our way rejoicing to the good deeds of the day.
In making a picture tell its story, our aim is to lead the child to look as well as to listen. If we do all the talking ourselves, his attention will wander from the object before him. A few questions will help him to draw out some of the story for himself. If he points out the salient features as we mention them, his interest is quickened and his powers of observation stimulated. By and by he will know the picture by
