"Baby and I would like the privilege of praising the Lord with you," she said simply, "and we would like to do our share in keeping up this church and congregation to His honour and glory. There's some water. Can't you baptize us now?"
The minister turned to the pitcher, which always stood on his desk, filled his palm, and asked: "What is the baby's name?"
"Katherine Eleanor Peters," said Kate.
"Katherine Eleanor, I baptize thee," said the minister, and he laid his hand on the soft curls of the baby. She scattered the flowers she was holding over the altar as she reached to spat her hands in the water on her head and laughed aloud.
"What is your name?" asked the minister.
"Katherine Eleanor Holt," said Kate.
Again the minister repeated the formula, and then he raised both hands and said: "Let us pray."