It is the holiest thing on
earth. Anything may be degraded. I've even heard of a burlesque of the
sacrament. I don't see why I shouldn't speak frankly, Philip. You are
in a state of mind that is morbid and self-tormenting. If you love a
woman, tell her so honestly and clearly; and if she is a good woman and
can love you, go down on your knees, and thank God."
He leaned his forehead on his hands, as if he were struggling with
himself. The firelight shone on his rich hair, auburn like her own.
Helen watched him anxiously, wondering if she had said too much, and
whether she were taking too great a responsibility in the advice she
gave. Certainly anything must be good that took him out of his
unhealthy mood.
"Come," she said, rising, and turning on the electric light again. "It
is time for Grant to be at home, and for me to be dressing. We are to
dine at the Bodewin Rangers to-night."
He put up his hand to arrest her, and said in a tone that wrung her
heart:--
"But, Cousin Helen, I cannot speak of love to a woman until I am ready
to give up for her my priestly calling."
"Until you are willing to give up your unwholesome idea of celibacy and
asceticism, you mean.
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