Smith & Priest

From Bad to Good Father Donne asked me for a favor. “Would you consider taking someone with you?” “Perhaps, but tell me more.” “Well, we have many parishioners in our church who are poor. This particular family was both sick and poor. We tried to help them, but the parents died. They were not Catholic, the child is not Catholic, and no one will adopt him. He is a problem. We’re feeding and caring for him, but he is a bit much for us. If you would take him with you, maybe he could be successful as a trapper and trader some day. He speaks some French, but he is English. He has no family and no one else will help him, Zoel. Many people here hate the English.” My heart skipped a beat. This was me on the boat, and I was rescued by Henry. How can I refuse to help him? I asked myself. “Where is he?” “He is staying with a family while you and your team are here; he will return to the church after you leave. His name is Peter Smith.” That stopped me cold. I excused myself and looked for Yancy. He was busy helping the warriors tighten their packs, but when he looked up and saw my serious, troubled look, he asked, “What’s wrong, Zoel?” “I need some advice, Yancy,” He quickly stepped away from the others. Once out of their hearing range, I told him about Father Donne’s request. “Isn’t your last name Smith?” “Yes, it is, but I’m sure we aren’t related. Even so, I feel I have no choice but to take him on as a brother. God has touched my heart, Yancy, and I need to help them and him. Please tell me what you think.” “Our God is a good God and loves the poor and wants us to raise them up as Henry has taught us. That’s why Josh and I now tithe. We want to do what God wants us to do. How can we walk away from this boy? I promise no matter how many problems he has, you and I will be his brothers,” he said, placing his hands assuredly on my shoulders. “I will help you.” I love this man, I said to myself, as I walked back to the church. “Are there some legal papers we need to sign, Father Donne?” There were none. He left immediately to collect the boy and his things. “He will need some things to travel,” I told Father Neel. “We have already prepared him for travel, Zoel. We know your heart and thank you.” I removed one piece of gold from my sewed hide-a-way. He smiled as he watched me remove it and then thanked me again. Peter Smith looked healthy with his hair sticking out from under his cap. He asked if we were related. I told him the odds were good we were distant relatives, but only time would tell. He gave me an understanding look. I introduced him to Yancy and the warriors and told them he was a new family member and looked forward to traveling with us. They were all gracious and introduced themselves. I can’t wait to write to my grandfather again, I thought.