"If your assertion be correct, perhaps it would be better for me to withdraw and leave Mr. Brown in your hands."
"I beg your pardon," said Durant, "I did not mean to offend you; I will endeavor to be more careful during the rest of the conversation."
"We will resume the discussion at another time. Tonight I only intended remaining a short time, having an important engagement; so, if you will excuse me, I will wish you all good evening."
"Well," said Mr. Brown, "things have taken a very peculiar turn. I seem to be out of the contest. I have heard more that appears reasonable from you, Mr. Durant, regarding religion than ever before in my life, and I must also admit that if my early teaching on religious matters had been of this character, I believe I would have been a Christian. I am somewhat familiar with the doctrines of different Christian societies, and from the way you express yourself regarding the personality of God, I would like very much to hear your views regarding other differences. Do you disagree with these ministers very much on other principles?"
"I am afraid the difference on many important principles is just as great as that concerning the personality of God. But if you really desire to go with me in this search after the kingdom of God, and the others are willing, I assure you it will give me great pleasure."
Unanimous approval was expressed at once, and Mr. Brown continued, saying:
"I never before had as great a desire in this direction, and must confess that my curiosity has become quite aroused."
"Then," said Durant, "we will take King James' translation of the Scriptures as the law-book, and 'Seek ye first the kingdom of God' for our text; and if we should discover before we have finished that the teachings of men differ greatly from the teachings of Christ, I will be somewhat justified in saying that religionists have 'transgressed the laws, changed the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.'" (Isaiah xxiv: 5. Jere. ii: 13.)
"Very well," said Mr. Brown, "I will proceed," and obtaining the family Bible he continued: "And should your assertions prove correct, it would account for the increase of infidelity, and it might also cause others as well as myself to stop and consider. Now, then, to the 'law and testimony.' Give me the chapter and verse, that I may know you make no mistake."
The doctor then for the first time took part, saying: "I am also becoming very much interested, and think I shall join you with my Bible. Let us all come into the circle."