I INTEND to make a million of money, even if I go to hell for it." Such were the words that were spoken over fifty years ago by a landowner in the West of England, at a banquet given on his behalf. The speaker had been left an orphan at an early age, and on attaining his majority was given a grand dinner by his tenants and friends.
One of the company, in proposing his health, expressed the hope that he would have long life and prosperity. In responding to the toast, he thanked them for their kind wishes, and capped his speech with the words that have been already quoted.
The gentleman, however, really meant what h said. Night and day he worked and planned, with the result that his speculations and investments were pre-eminently successful. With wealth came friends and honors, and he was eventually chosen to represent in Parliament one of the divisions of the county in which he resided. But, with all his possessions, he was far from being happy.
By-and-bye, the "M.P." became suddenly and seriously ill, Medical aid was summoned. The physician observed that the case was serious, and .asked for a consultation with another practitioner. The sick man was told that his illness might terminate fatally, and he was advised to settle his business affairs. The following Thursday was fixed upon for this, and the patient appeared most anxious that his life should be prolonged until then.
“Doctor, I'll give you ₤100," said he, “if you will keep me alive till Thursday." He was assured that all would be done for him that medical skill could accomplish. Next day he said he would give him £1,000 if he were successful. The doctor replied as he did on the previous occasion. This, however, did not satisfy him, and he swore dreadfully. Soon after this an old servant, who was in attendance, rushed out of the room, saying, “I could bear to hear my poor master curse and swear, but I cannot remain with him while speaking as he does now. He says he has seen a dreadful creature, who has come to take him away." The relations on entering the sick chamber, saw that death had preceded them, and had carried off its victim, leaving nothing but the clay tenement.
On his estate being wound up, it was found that he had made exactly a million of dollars. "How sad!" says one. Yes, indeed, it was very sad and, solemn. Many are hotly pursuing wealth. They have no idea of becoming millionaires, but they are determined "to make money." They have an ambition to die rich. And what then? They will' be compelled to leave their wealth behind. After death comes the judgment, and after judgment the lake of fire. Oh! reader, ponder the words of the Lord Jesus. “What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his soul" (Mark 8:3636For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Mark 8:36))? If you were to become as rich as a Rothschild, or a Vanderbilt, and lose your soul, what a calamity that would be! It would, indeed, be an irreparable and eternal loss. “For what shall a man give in exchange for his soul” (ver. 37)?
A. M.