"Bill," said he, "have you altered your ideas about the church?"
"What ideas?"
"Well, about women having the privilege of speaking in meetings."
Bill shook his head, and Graves resumed:
"Well, I'm changing my mind ... I'm going to stop this nonsense."
The rich man sat up and the druggist, scenting a religious rumpus, drew his stool nearer. Bill coughed loudly.
"Those women," continued Graves, "have had their own way too long ... I shall put a stop to it immediately."
Bill Hopkins wondered what was coming. It behooved him to wait and see; so he settled back with his head bowed and his piercing eyes directed steadily upon the pastor. A dark flush mounted to the minister's face. He had expected that such condescension to an ex-member would be received with enthusiasm. As no other of the "Ameners" offered a word, Graves continued:
"Next thing that we know, the women will be coming into the church with uncovered heads. I wonder I've stood it so long."