s, doctor, and though a great deal
of it seems to be humbug, it is as you say--I know _some_ are sincere,
and I know there is a right way. I have been more than half tempted
many times during the last few weeks to discover for myself the secret
of power, but I am deterred by certain considerations, which you
would, doubtless, think very absurd, but which, joined with the
inspiration which I receive from the ridiculous inconsistencies of
others, have been sufficient to deter me hitherto."

"Would you mind telling me some of the considerations?"

And the moment Sadie began to talk honestly, the doctor's tones lost
their half-indifferent coolness, and expressed a kind and thoughtful
interest.

"No," she said, hesitatingly. "I don't know that I need, but you will
not understand them; for instance, if I were a Christian I should have
to give up one of my favorite amusements--almost a passion, you know,
dancing is with me, and I am not ready to yield it."

"Why should you feel obliged to do so if you were a Christian?"

Sadie gave him the benefit of a very searching look. "Don't _you_
think I would be?" she queried, after a moment's silence.

"I haven't said what I thought on that subject, but I feel sure that
it is not the question for you to decide at present; first settle the
all-important one of your personal acceptation of Christ, and then
it will be time to decide the other matter, for or against, as your
conscience may dictate."

"Oh, but," said Sadie, positively, "I know very well what my
conscience would dictate, and I am not ready for it."

"Isn't dancing an innocent amusement?"

"For _me_ yes, but not for a Christian."

"Does the Bible lay down one code of laws for you and another for
Christians?"

"I think so--it says, 'Be not conformed to the world.'"

"Granted; but does it anywhere say to those who are of the world,
'_You_ have a right to do just what you like; that direction does not
apply to you at all, it is all intended for those poor Christians?'"

"Dr. Van Anden," said Sadie with dignity, "don't you think there
should be a difference between Christians and those who are not?"

"Undoubtedly I do. Do _you_ think that every person ought or ought
_not_ to be a Christian?"

Sadie was silent, and a little indignant. After a moment she spoke
again, this time with a touch of hauteur:

"I think you understand what I mean, Doctor, though you would not
admit it for the world. I don't suppose I fee