The Dominie wended his way toward the business quarter of the city and turned into the Gas Company's office. Inquiring for Mr. Hall, he was ushered into a private room marked "President," and heartily greeted one of the deacons of his church.
"Anything wrong?" asked Hall, noticing the expression upon his pastor's face.
"No, only I called about a new rule which we're going to pass Wednesday evening, and you can help us if you will."
The president looked up inquiringly.
"The women must no longer speak at the prayer meeting."
Mr. Hall half rose from his chair as these words fell from the clergyman's lips, but he sank mutely back.
"It has become necessary to enforce the laws of the church," explained Graves, "and I have taken up this matter with some of the members—also with your wife."
Mr. Hall dropped his eyes upon his left hand with the fingers of which he was bending back those of his right.
"And what did she say?"
"I think it will be necessary for you to talk with her, Hall; surely you have enough influence over her to make her see that it is absolutely necessary that women should cease their—"