y observing quite naturally that he and his wife had
come over to say good-bye, before leaving for the South, adding "no
doubt Mrs. Worthington has told you."

"Yes, yes, and I'm sure we're very sorry to lose you; that is, Mrs.
Larimore--I should say Mrs. Hosmer. Isabella will certainly regret her
departure, I see them always together, you know."

"You cling to your old habit, I see, Mr. Worthington," said Hosmer,
indicating his meaning by a motion of the hand towards the book on the
table.

"Yes, to a certain extent. Always within the forced limits, you
understand. At this moment I am much interested in tracing the history
of various religions which are known to us; those which have died out,
as well as existing religions. It is curious, indeed, to note the
circumstances of their birth, their progress and inevitable death;
seeming to follow the course of nations in such respect. And the
similitude which stamps them all, is also a feature worthy of study.
You would perhaps be surprised, sir, to discover the points of
resemblance which indicate in them a common origin. To observe the
slight differences, indeed technical differences, distinguishing the
Islam from the Hebrew, or both from the Christian religion. The creeds
are obviously ramifications from the one deep-rooted trunk which we
call religion. Have you ever thought of this, Mr. Hosmer?"

"No, I admit that I've not gone into it. Homeyer would have me think
that all religions are but mythological creations invented to satisfy
a species of sentimentality--a morbid craving in man for the unknown
and undemonstrable."

"That is where he is wrong; where I must be permitted to differ from
him. As you would find, my dear sir, by following carefully the
history of mankind, that the religious sentiment is implanted, a true
and legitimate attribute of the human soul--with peremptory right to
its existence. Whatever may be faulty in the creeds--that makes no
difference, the foundation is there and not to be dislodged. Homeyer,
as I understand him from your former not infrequent references, is an
Iconoclast, who would tear down and leave devastation behind him;
building up nothing. He would deprive a clinging humanity of the
supports about which she twines herself, and leave her helpless and
sprawling upon the earth."

"No, no, he believes in a natural adjustment," interrupted Hosmer. "In
an innate reserve force of accommodation. What we commonly call laws
in nature,