in the world. Consider, the
world has inherited from classical antiquity two great ideas, those of
state and nationality. Men were brought up in these two ideas. Then
came religion, and taught universality, the oneness of all mankind, the
brotherhood of man, and the unity of humanity. Religion alone could
have done it; it would have been impossible for the Roman civilization
under the old and new Caesars. The church has done her work; she has
implanted the idea of humanity. Now people assemble again in states, in
nationalities, still needing to preserve the idea of brotherhood. But
forgive me, I am falling too much into the schoolmaster's tone."

"No, no; pray go on; I understand. Pray go on!"

"Very well, then; what was ever purely ideal is not lost to the world,
only it must not require to be forever and ever the one sole expression
of truth. Here lies the difference between us unbelievers, as we are
called, and believers. Let me illustrate my meaning by facts--or do I
weary you?"

"How can you think so poorly of me?"

"Forgive me. The present century is laboring for two great objects, the
emancipation of the serfs, and the abolition of slavery. They will be
accomplished, but not by the church; no, by the progress of culture.
Forgive me, my child, I do not want to confuse you. Never touch upon
the subject again, be sure you never do again. I am a patient man, very
patient. I want to disturb no one, but I pray you, most earnestly I
must pray you, never to touch upon these subjects with me again. As I
have said, I am sorry if I have spoken slightingly of anything which is
sacred and dear to you; I hope it will so continue to you, although I
reject it. But I beg you, earnestly beg you, not to approach this theme
again."

As Manna walked by the side of the Professor, she longed for some hand
from heaven to snatch her away from him.

What had she fallen upon? What words had she had to hear? and that not
from a man of the world, but from one who desired nothing but to end
his life in modest quiet.

No hand from heaven was outstretched to snatch her away, and she
gradually succeeded in regaining her tranquillity.

It was well she should have heard this from a man she could not
despise. This was the last assault of the tempter; she would not yield
under it. So she promised herself, and pressed her hand on her heart,
as if there was something there of which she would keep fast hold. But
the deed was done; she could