"Calling it 'bad' does not make it so. Well, since you will not remain at home with me, will you not let me go with you to the prayer-meeting? If I'm ever to join your church, it is time I entered on the initiating mysteries."
"I think a book will do you more good in your present mood."
"What a low estimate you make of the 'means of grace'! Why, certain of your own poets have said, 'And fools who came to scoff remained to pray.'"
"The quotation does not apply to you, Mr. Gregory. For, even if you can doubt the power and truth of Christianity, the memory of your childhood will prevent you from scoffing at it."
A sudden shadow came across his face, but after a moment he said, in his old tones:
"Will you not let me go to the prayer-meeting?"
"Father will be glad to have you go with us, if you think it prudent to venture out in the night air."
"Prudence to the dogs! What is the use of living if we cannot do as we please? But will you be glad to have me go?"
"That depends upon your motives."
"If I should confess you wouldn't let me go," he replied with a bow. "But I will try to be as good as possible, just to reward your kindness."