See Ruth ii, iii, iv.

THE story of Ruth and Boaz is one of the sweetest idyls ever spoke or sung. The character of Ruth, tender and sweet, guided by the wisdom of Naomi, is an unceasing delight, showing the heart that beat thousands of years ago in the com-lands of Judea as true in its throbs as is the heart of the maiden in her father's fields to-day, and, to round and fill the tale, her filial tenderness and devotion are fitly rewarded in the protection and love of the noble Boaz, the kinsman of Naomi. Wedded in Bethlehem, city of David and of Christ-with the congratulations of the people and the elders-this union of the Israelite and the foreigner was peculiarly blessed. To them was born a son, "and they called his name abed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David." In the engraving Ruth is seen in the foreground gathering the scattered wheat, the busy harvesters around her, while Boaz, standing near, is directing the young men respecting her: "Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not. And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them that she may glean them, and rebuke her not." A companion picture to the engraving is furnished in these exquisite lines by Thomas Hood: She stood breast-high amid the corn, Clasped by the golden light of morn, Like the sweetheart of the sun, Who many a glowing kiss had won. On her cheek an autumn flush, Deeply ripened; -such a blush In the midst of brown was born, Like red poppies grown with corn. Round her eyes her tresses fell,- Which were blackest none could tell; But long lashes veiled a light That had else been all too bright. And her hat, with shady rim, Made her tressy forehead dim;-", Thus she stood among the stooks, Praising God with sweetest looks. Sure, I said, God did not mean Where I reap, thou shouldst but glean: Lay thy sheaf adown and come Share my harvest and my home.