For three months before the meeting of the National Association the intimations had grown more distinct of the severance of visible relations between the Teacher of Christian Science and her students. The number of the Journal that reached them as they were leaving their homes for Cleveland gave distinct announcement of her separation from College and church Pastorate; the gift of the Journal to the Association and resignation of its presidency, that greeted the opening assemblage, made the severance complete and definitive.
Up to this moment the prevailing feeling, despite the notice in the Journal, had been one of expectancy of her appearance, at least on the second day, and consequent waiting, leaning, and looking to her for guidance and direction.
The first impression that followed the decisive blow to these expectations was, beyond question, one of disappointment and hesitation. But this was followed almost instantly by the sense of responsibility, and the consciousness that, deprived of the Mother hand on which all had leaned, weakness, or hesitation, or division would be the herald of disaster. The firmness, wisdom, and good taste displayed in all the proceedings are the highest testimony to the previous instruction and guidance of members and delegates.
