“In anything and everything will I obey you, that does not transgress the laws of God, I mean, of course.”
“Ah, that to begin with, is one very broad and comprehensive exception—especially if you design to give it a very liberal and latitudinarian interpretation. And it implies, besides, a suspicion and a guard against my giving you any command which, to obey, would be to transgress the laws of God. Do you really suppose that I am capable of doing such a thing, Alice?”
“No—oh, no. Only you pressed me for an exception, you know, and I gave you the only one I thought of.”
“I am satisfied with your exception, Alice. But is that really the only exception to your vow of compliance?”
“Yes, indeed, the only one.”
“Reflect—you may find another.”
“No; indeed, no.”
“No? What is the dearest wish of your heart, now, Alice?”
“For peace—for perfect family peace and perfect Christian love.”
“Thanks, Alice. ‘Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.’ But is there no secret, darling thought that hovers around Magnus and Elsie?”