music, of the “ton mineur et pitoyable,” as formerly, but there is still something to be done to add to their comfort and prosperity.
The establishment of the orphanage[1] has had an excellent influence spiritually and socially; for the number of orphans is great, and many are brought under the valuable teaching and training of Mdlle. Marie Sircoulon. There is a hospital at Torre Pellice, due to the exertions of Madame Geymet, who, in spite of discouragements, determined to pursue the plan she had formed, saying, “An acorn is not an oak; I will plant one in the earth; and God, who giveth growth to the oak, will prosper my undertaking.” And Madame Geymet’s acorn, with God’s blessing, did become a sheltering tree for the afflicted Waldenses, who still find healing in its leaves. The hospital was for many years the object of great attention and sacrifices on the part of General Beckwith. A second has been established at Pomaret, not quite so large at that at Torre Pellice. [2]
There is some provision for the poor in each parish, and gifts are annually received from Holland for the same object.
It might naturally be supposed that such a life of toil, such fare, such lodging would sink the man to the level of the beast with whom he herds; but it is not so. Whether it be owing to an elevation of mind induced by the nobler features of nature around, to their isolated situation, or to the purity of their belief, nowhere will you meet with kindlier manners or more gentle breeding. Be it on the highest mountain or in the most sequestered vale, the traveller is sure of safety and of welcome. Should he be
