"Of course," sighed Mrs. Flint, resignedly, "if you insist I will leave the club."
"Let your action be guided by your own judgment, and consideration for the principles which I believe to be true. Perhaps the example of a worthy sister of our church who has already taken the step may make it easier for you to decide," said the parson in milder tones.
"Why, whom do you mean?" asked Mrs. Flint in surprise.
"Mrs. Deacon Walton."
"Has she resigned?"
"She has, or will at the next meeting, so her husband informed me last evening."
"Then of course I must do likewise," said Mrs. Flint, a little piqued to learn that Mrs. Walton had been the first to comply with the demands of their church.
"I knew that you could be relied upon to do your duty," replied the parson, triumphantly.
"But, father," said Will, quickly, with a trace of indignation in his voice, "is it her duty to deny herself something that she believes to be right? Is it right for her to do a thing just because you wish it?"
"I consider it so. Sometimes we do not see, or understand, our duty as clearly as others. In that case, when we are guided by some one who is in a position to know, it is certainly right to do a thing, which, at the time, is against our own will." The parson was irritated by his son's interference, and spoke sharply.