"That I did what?" asked John, amazed at the unexpected discovery of the rector's reason.
"That you invited and permitted a man named Wolffert, a socialistic Jew, to address a congregation in my chapel?"
"It is true," said John Marvel, "that I invited Mr. Wolffert to speak to an assemblage in the chapel under my charge, and that he did so speak there."
"Uttering the most dangerous and inflammatory doctrines—doctrines alike opposed to the teaching of the church and to the command of the law?"
"That is not true," said John. "You have been misinformed."
"I do not wish or propose to discuss either this or any other matter with you, Mr. Marvel. You have allowed a Jew to speak in the house of God. Your usefulness is ended. You will be good enough to sign this paper, for you may rest assured that I know my rights and shall maintain them."
"No, I will not sign this paper," said John Marvel, "but I will resign. Give me a sheet of paper."
The rector handed him a sheet, and John drew up a chair to the desk and wrote his resignation in a half-dozen words and handed it to the rector.
"Is that accepted?" he asked quietly.
"It is." The rector laid the sheet on his desk and then turned back to John Marvel. "And now, Mr. Marvel, allow me to say that you grossly, I may say flagitiously, violated the trust I reposed in you when——"