Did you ever see the horses taken to water? They rush into some
beautiful stream, and drink of it to their heart's content; after which
they turn their backs upon it, or stamp in it with their feet, until the
water is polluted. This is the price they pay for their refreshing
draught. But what, then does the noble river? It immediately floats away
the mud, and continues after, as it was before, full and free of access
for the same or other thirsty creatures. And so must you also do. If
there be a fountain of genuine charity in your heart, it will
constantly, and spontaneously overflow, whether those who drink of it
are thankful or not. This life is the season for sowing and scattering;
we shall reap hereafter.
220
Give freely to him that deserveth well, and asketh nothing.
221