rls, I think this is a good opportunity to say to you something
that I have for a long time wished to say. You know we are in the habit
of speaking to each other upon every subject that interests us,
excepting that of religion. None of us profess to be Christians,
although we know it is our duty to be. We have all pious mothers, and,
if yours are like mine, they are constantly urging, as well as our other
friends, to give our hearts to God, and we cannot but think of the
subject; now, why should we not speak of it together? and why are we not
Christians?"

Emily Upton. "I should really be very glad, Clara, if we could. It seems
to me we might talk much more freely with each other, than with older
persons; for some things trouble me on this subject, and if I should
speak of them to mother, or any one else, I am afraid they would think
less of me, or blame me."

Clara. "Then let us each answer the question, why are we not Christians?
You tell us first, Emily."

Emily. "Well, then, it seems to me, I am just as good as many in the
church. I do not mean to say that I am good, but only if they are
Christians, I think I am. There is Leonora D., for instance, she dresses
as richly with feathers and jewels, attends parties instead of the
prayer-meetings, and acts as haughtily as any lady of fashion I ever
knew. Now, I go to the Bible class, evening meetings, always attend
church, and read the Bible, and pray every day. Notwithstanding all,
mother says, so tenderly, 'Emily, my child, I wish you were a
Christian,' and I get almost angry that she will not admit that I am
one."

Alice Grey. "Well, I do not blame Leonora much. To tell the truth, I do
not believe in so much church-going and psalm-singing. I think God has
given us these pleasant things to enjoy them, and it is perfectly
natural for a young girl to sing and dance, visit, dress, and enjoy
herself. It seems to me there is time enough for religion when we grow
older, but give me youthful pleasures and I can be happy enough."

Sophia. "But you think religion is important, do you not?"

Alice. "Yes, I suppose it is necessary to have religion to die by, and I
own I sometimes feel troubled for fear that I may die before possessing
it, but I am healthy and happy, and do not think much about it. I want
to enjoy life while I can, like these little birds in the garden who are
singing and skipping so merrily."

Clara. "Annie, you are the reverse of Alice, quiet, gentle, and