“Because of what?”
Selina did not seem quite ready with a reason. Presently, however, she answered: “Because it offends God.”
“Certainly,” said Mary: “it offends God to refuse to bear whatever he appoints. It shows that we do not trust in him; it shows that we are very cowardly.”
“Cowardly!” exclaimed Selina: “what! to do such a bold act as that?”
“Such a rash act,” said Mary: “it is not the less cowardly, on the whole, for being rash. I know it must require some sort of vehement resolution to do the very deed—to cut one’s throat across, or fire a pistol through one’s brains.”
“That is what I mean,” interrupted Selina.
“But a man who shows this sort of courage, only has it because he wants a greater; he only chooses the shortest way of getting rid of his troubles, because he cannot bear the longer trial. I am sure, Selina, you must admire the courage that can bear on, and bear on, happen what will.”
“Like the martyrs, and like the prisoners in the Inquisition. Oh yes!”
“And like many who never heard of the Inquisition, but who endure worse things than they could ever meet with there; troubles and griefs which last from year to year, and which oppress their wives or their children, or somebody else whom they care more about than themselves.”
Selina looked doubtful.