“Every word true and solemn! I have heard less wise saws from between black covers.”
Sir Silas was indignant at this under-rating, as he appeared to think it, of the church and its ministry, and answered impatiently, with Christian freedom,—
“Your worship surely will not listen to this wild wizard in his brothel-pulpit!”
William Shakspeare.
“Do I live to hear Charlecote Hall called a brothel-pulpit? Alas, then, I have lived too long!”
Sir Silas.
“We will try to amend that for thee.”
William seemed not to hear him, loudly as he spake and pointedly unto the youngster, who wiped his eyes, crying,—
“Commit me, sir! in mercy commit me! Master Ephraim! Oh, Master Ephraim! A guiltless man may feel all the pangs of the guilty! Is it you who are to make out the commitment? Dispatch! dispatch. I am a-weary of my life. If I dared to lie, I would plead guilty.”
Sir Thomas.