had not been sought for by my father.
I was happy and contented, and now I do not see any chance of having to
congratulate myself on the change."

"On one or two points I also wish to question you. It appears that you
have entered into the sect denominated Quakers. Tell me candidly, do you
subscribe heartily and sincerely to their doctrines? And I was going to
add, is it your intention to remain with them? I perceive much
difficulty in all this."

"The tenets of the sect I certainly do believe to be more in accordance
with the Christian religion than any other; and I have no hesitation in
asserting, from my knowledge of those who belong to that sect, that they,
generally speaking, lead better lives. There are some points connected
with their worship, which, at first, I considered ridiculous: the feeling
has, however, worn off. As to their quaint manner of speaking, that has
been grossly exaggerated. Their dress is a part of their religion."

"Why so, Japhet?"

"I can reply to you in the words of Susannah Temple, when I made the
same interrogatory. 'You think the peculiarity of our dress is an
outward form which is not required. It was put on to separate us from
others, and as a proof that we had discarded vanity. I am aware that it
is not a proof of our sincerity; but still, the discarding of the dress
is a proof of insincerity. We consider, that to admire the person is
vain, and our creed is humility. It is therefore an outward and visible
sign, that we would act up to those tenets which we profess. It is not
all who wear the dress who are Quakers in heart or conduct; but we know
that when it is put aside, the tenets of our persuasion are at the same
time renounced, therefore do we consider it essential. I do not mean to
say but that the heart may be as pure, and the faith continue as stedfast
without such signs outwardly, but it is a part of our creed, and we must
not choose, but either reject all or none.'"

"Very well argued by the little Quakeress; and now, Japhet, I should
like to put another question to you. Are you very much attached to this
young puritan?"

"I will not deny but that I am. I love her sincerely."

"Does your love carry you so far, that you would, for her sake, continue
a Quaker, and marry her?"

"I have asked myself that question at least a hundred times during the
last twenty-four hours, and I cannot decide. If she would dress as others
do, and allow me to do the same, I would marry her