Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/99

 pastor, who was good enough, you have said, to be the successor of St. Peter. Then the rite was sanctioned by a priest of our own faith. It seems wicked that such a stain should be thrown upon our honored name.”

“If there was the semblance of justice in this country, such indignities would not be permitted,” said Madame; “but might makes right in these days, and we have no influence with those in power. I tell you, daughter, what we will do if we are so fortunate as to secure this property. We will emigrate to England, where our rights will be respected and where we shall have the privilege of worshipping God without remonstrance. How does this plan impress you?”

“I should much rather cross the ocean, and in a new country help to found a colony where religious controversy and persecution would be unknown.”

“And live among Indians and negroes?” cried Madame La Tour. “You caught that insane idea from Colonel Van Straalen, I suspect. You seem to regard all his sayings as law and gospel. I am very glad he left you when he did, else I am afraid he might have converted you to the Protestant faith.”

“Possibly he would, mother. The trouble with me is that I have no settled belief. My father's example and his precepts ring in my ears, while outwardly I have been taught to conform to the