First, therefore, overhaul theology!

Nay, I too, not a fool, you please to think,

Must find believing every whit as hard:

And if I do not frankly say as much,

The ugly consequence is clear enough.

Now wait, my friend: well, I do not believe—

If you'll accept no faith that is not fixed,

Absolute and exclusive, as you say.

You're wrong—I mean to prove it in due time.

Meanwhile, I know where difficulties lie