re not assuming theologic
ground. It is the life to which we are looking. We said "The
fundamental doctrine of Christian _life_."

"All doctrine has relation to life, and I contend for faith as
fundamental."

We won't argue that point, for the reason that it would lead us away
from the theme we are considering. We simply change the form of our
proposition, and call it a leading doctrine of Christian life.

"So far I agree with you."

Then the way before us is unobstructed again. You asked us to show you
authority in the Bible for saying that a man cannot be a Christian who
is not a gentlemen. We point you to the Golden Rule. In that all laws
of etiquette, so called, are included. It is the code of good breeding
condensed to an axiom. Now it has so happened that our observation of
you, friend objector, has been closer than may have been imagined. We
have noted your outgoings and incomings on divers occasions; and we are
sorry to say that you cannot be classed with the true gentleman.

"Sir!"

Gently! Gently! If a man may be a Christian, and not a gentleman at the
same time, your case is not so bad. But to the testimony of fact. Let
these witness for or against you. Let your own deeds approve or
condemn. You are not afraid of judgment by the standard of your own
conduct?

"Of course not."

And if we educe only well-remembered incidents, no offence will be
taken.

"Certainly not."

We go back, then, and repeat the law of true gentlemanly conduct. "As
ye would that men should do unto you, do ye even so to them." You were
at Stockbridge last summer?

"Yes."

And took supper at the hotel there, with a small company of strangers?

"Yes."

There was a dish of fine strawberries on the table, among the first of
the season. You are fond of strawberries. They are your favorite fruit;
and, as their rich fragrance came to your nostrils, you felt eager to
taste them. So you counted the guests at the table, and measured the
dish of strawberries with your eyes. Then you looked from face to face,
and saw that all were strangers. Appetite might be indulged, and no one
would know that it was _you_. The strawberries would certainly not go
round, So you hurried down a cup of tea, and swallowed some toast
quickly. Then you said to the waiter, "Bring me the strawberries." They
were brought and set before you. And now, were you simply just in
securing your share, if the number fell below a dozen berries? You were
taking car