Arthur Warton, of St. Ethelburga's, showed signs of disapprobation.
'I believe that I am as broad-minded a priest as you will easily find, but there are seasons at which certain topics should not be touched upon. Without wishing in any way to thrust forward my clerical office, I would point out to Mr. Chisholm that this assuredly is one.'
'Is there then a season at which Christ should not come again?'
'Mr. Chisholm!'
'Or in which He should not restore the dead to life?'
'I should not wish to disturb the harmony of the gathering, Mr. Amplett, but I am afraid the--eh--circumstances are not--eh--fortuitous. I cannot sit here and allow my sacred office to be mocked.'
'Mocked! Is it to mock your sacred office to spread abroad the news that He has come again? I am fresh from His presence, and tell you so--you that claim to be His priest.'
Fordham, who had been standing by him all the time, came a little closer.
'Come, Hugh, let's get out of this, you and I, and talk over things quietly together.'
Again Chisholm kept him from him with his outstretched hand.