Our conscience is the leaven of character;

And just enough of it may sweeten life,

But too much keeps in ferment moods that work,

Like brewings, flung to froth and sediment:

The froth flies up and off to vex our friends;

The rest sinks down in self, embittering

Our own experience.”

“And yet,” I said,

“Our conscience, in religion”—

“There,” he cried,