Page:The "Conscience Clause" (Denison, 1866).djvu/48

44 classes of Her Majesty's subjects. First, those Nonconformists, whose Nonconformity is rather political than religious. Religious people can't be pleased with the "Secular Education" of their children, or with any approach to it. Secondly, what is called "the Broad Church"?—a feature of our times which of all bad features is the worst. Outside the Council office I know of none others who are pleased with "Conscience Clause."

But some still say, Never mind, let us admit it, it will be a dead letter. I have no belief in anything of the kind. If I had it would make no difference. I cannot endorse such a policy as this. It is wrong alike by Church and Sects. It reminds me of the time of the so-called Oxford Reform Bill. I said to a dear friend of mine who was active in it at that time, "How many Dissenters do you think are going to walk into Oxford over Magdalen and Folly bridges when the thing is done?" "Not one," said he. "Well," said I, "you are frank enough with me, but if you were as frank with the public what would become of the Commission? And, if you are not frank with the public, I can't see the honesty of your proceeding." Just so, some say, let us have a "Conscience Clause," and Dissenters will make no difficulty about their children being taught the Churches Faith any more than if there were no "Conscience Clause;" e.g. give them the power of withdrawing their children from the class at certain hours, and you will see that they won't withdraw them. Why then pretend to be so anxious to consult a conscience which by your own showing is not strained now? If Dissenting parents do not object to their children being taught the Church's Faith—as is very commonly the case—wherefore a "Conscience Clause"? If they do object, wherefore is their conscience to be consulted at the expense of the Churchman's conscience?

But supposing, on the other hand, that you are deceived in your expectations, and the "Conscience Clause" is turned, as I make no doubt it would be, into a ready weapon of offence against the Church, you will have put it out of the power of the