. If not in my time then in
another's."

CHAPTER V.

A QUESTION OF EDUCATION.

"I can't think why you, or any reasonable man, should object to a board
school?" said Paul, who had been expounding his views at some length to
the rector. "The people should have a voice in the matter of their
children's education; and it can't be fair that any particular system
of religion should be forced upon them. In a place like this you would
be pretty certain to come out at the head of the poll, and, if
religious teaching seems such an essential, you would be allowed to
give it with limitations."

"With limitations that would practically make it useless," said Mr.
Curzon. "I am prepared to make any sacrifice rather than surrender the
religious training of the children God has given to my care. It will
be a hard matter, with you against me, but I must stick fast by my
principle."

"In a few more years there won't be a voluntary school left in the
country," said Paul.

"Mine shall be one of the last to die," replied Mr. Curzon.

"You are fully persuaded that you are carrying out the wishes of your
people."

"I am sure that, as far as I know it, I shall be doing my duty by
them--and that must come first; but they shall have an opportunity of
expressing their opinion. I am going to call a meeting about the
enlarging of the school, and I shall try and persuade every one to
attend it."

"Including myself?" inquired Paul, with a rather sceptical smile.

"I shall wish you, of course, to be there."

"But I can only be there in opposition to your views," Paul said.

"A clergyman gets used to opposition," replied Mr. Curzon, quietly;
"but if the school is to be continued under the management of myself
and my churchwardens, it shall be no hole-and-corner business: it shall
be with the consent and confidence of the majority of my people."

Paul rose to go; and there was rather a troubled look on his face as he
took Mr. Curzon's out-stretched hand. It was such a kindly, friendly
grip.

"I'm afraid we cannot help coming across each other as we both have the
courage of our opinions; but at least you will believe that I have the
social development of the village very near at heart."

"And there, at least, we agree," said Mr. Curzon, smiling; "but with me
their spiritual welfare is even more urgent."

Kitty's little carriage was drawn up at the door, as she was just
returning from an outing. She greeted Paul with a b