“There is no doubt but that Christianity is far older than the teaching of Islam.”
“Yes, but not quite so ancient as the Vedas, on whose authority is founded the religious teaching of which we have just spoken. Buddhism is also far more ancient than Christianity; and while that, and I believe other religions, agree with yours in the teaching of true humanity, and also, to a wonderful degree, with the ceremonials of your church service, they go far beyond it in tolerance.”
“In this manner we shall make no progress,” remarked the Padre, angrily, in spite of his respect for the Emperor, in whose presence he was.
“No; I agree with you there, worthy Father,” said Akbar, with a slight smile; “but perhaps all would be better if you would study our different faiths, and give yourself the same trouble that we have not spared ourselves in making acquaintance with the religion of our country. We could then at least compare the different teachings, and so in the end decide on their comparative worth.”
“It was not for that purpose I came here,” answered the apostle of the heathen; “I was sent to preach the gospel, and save souls from destruction.”
“And in that,” said Akbar, in his usual calm tone, “I wish you all success; but I doubt whether you will achieve much if you simply seek to force on others what you yourself hold for truth, without inquiring what they on their side may consider true.”
“I believe,” said Aquaviva, not alarmed at the difficulties in his way, “in the irresistible power of conviction possessed by our faith alone, which in the end can soften the most obdurate hearts, be they those of atheists or idolators.”
“You mean by the teachings of your belief, do you not?”
“Certainly.”
“Well, however much this teaching differs from that of the other religions we have mentioned, I am but little inclined to share the implicit faith you place in it. I respect all; and on those points where you find other creeds to agree with your own there can be no strife, and your work of conversion will be unnecessary. What do you think, friend Faizi, is it not so? You are a man of calm judgment, not an idealist as I or even our worthy Aquaviva, therefore your opinion is for us of great weight.”