And Pécuchet added: “The universe has become enlarged; the earth is no longer its central point. It revolves amongst an infinite multitude of other worlds. Many of them surpass it in grandeur, and this belittlement of our globe shows a more sublime ideal of God.
“So, then, religion must change. Paradise is something infantile, with its blessed always in a state of contemplation, always chanting hymns, and looking from on high at the tortures of the damned. When one reflects that Christianity had for its basis an apple!”
The curé was annoyed. “Deny revelation; that would be simpler.”
“How do you make out that God spoke?” said Bouvard.
“Prove that he did not speak!” said M. Jeufroy.
“Once again, who affirms it?”
“The Church.”
“Nice testimony!”
This discussion bored M. de Mahurot, and, as he walked along: “Pray listen to the curé. He knows more than you.”
Bouvard and Pécuchet made signs to indicate that they were taking another road; then, at Croix-Verte: