"Oh, my father! He has come unto Bethlehem. Those who can believe God has any pleasure in punishing sinners, are still at Sinai."
"God must punish sinners," said Isabel.
"God can reform and forgive them, just as easily; and it would be far more in accord with His nature, for 'God is Love.'"
"If we are to have a theological discussion by young women, I shall retire," said Robert, and with these words he rose from the table.
"Sit down, Robert. You have had no pudding."
"The collops were very fine to-day, mother, and I am satisfied."
As he left the room Theodora rose and went with him, but he did not appear to notice her. When they were in their parlor he said: "You ought to have sat still and finished your argument with my sister."
"Have I done something wrong, Robert?"
"I think if you cannot assent to mother's statements, it would be more becoming not to contradict them."
"If it had been a matter of no importance, I would have kept silence, but I must always testify in any company, the absolute perfection of Jesus Christ's sacrifice."