The name of Bill Sykes has been made to represent ruffianism by the use of the name in Charles Dickens, in connection with one of the characters he employs. The Bill Sykes of our story was a well-known figure to some in the east end of London.
Some time ago a city missionary was asked, at the close of a meeting, to visit a dying man. He gladly complied, and soon he found himself in the presence of the well-known fruit peddler, Bill Sykes.
The missionary opening his Bible at the 3rd chapter of John read the story of Nicodemus. Sykes listened respectfully, but his only comment was “That’s funny.” His ignorance disconcerted the preacher, and in sheer desperation he closed the Book and prayed.
A woman at the bedside thinking the preacher was about to leave, said, “Bill Sykes, pull yourself together and listen.”
The missionary then read the story of the Brazen Serpent, and this drew the remark, “That’s clever, isn’t it?” The case seemed hopeless, and the preacher left promising to call again.
This he did many times with similar results, but one day on visiting him, Sykes said, “Do pray for me, I want to be saved.” It was happy work now telling the old, old story simply to this thirsty soul, and after hearing that the Saviour bore his sins and suffered on the cross of shame for him he said,
“I see it all now; He suffered for me then.”
Yes, replied the missionary; and the dying man was led to rest upon the Saviour. Isaiah 43:2525I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. (Isaiah 43:25) being the Scripture which seemed used to his blessing, “I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.”
From time to time his friends called, and if the missionary was there, Sykes was always anxious that they should hear the same good news. “You can have it for nothing, mate,” was his remark one day; and again, “give him that little bit.”
“What bit?”
“That little bit about Christ taking my place, and how He bore my punishment for me.”
To the close of his life he was filled with joy in his newly found Saviour.
“Aye sir,” said he to a visitor one day, “it was that little bit did the business.” This was Bill’s way of expressing the truth which many ignore, Substitution.
The word would no doubt have puzzled him, but he knew the blessed truth of it.
J.W.H. N.