been applied, and I do admire at the milk-and-water temper of the
worthy Assistant at this present. Not thus is he wont to speak, but in
the common is zealous even unto slaying. What incantation or witch of
Endor hath blinded him, I know not."

The blood mounted into the face of Endicott, for he, as well as the
others present, understood the remark to refer to the young and gentle
wife of the ex-Governor of Salem, and who was supposed to exert a
great influence in soothing the fierceness of his disposition, (alas,
if it were so; how short a time that influence lasted!) and many were
the smiles that circled the table, but Winthrop, apprehensive of a
storm, interposed.

"My worthy friend," he said, "can surely intend no disrespect toward
one of the stoutest champions of our Israel. Doubtless he will be able
so to explain his words, as to make their meaning innocent."

"I complain not," burst forth Endicott. "If it were lawful to try
conclusions in the manner of the Gentiles, and he a fit man for me to
deal with, his lips should never repeat such vituperations;" and as he
concluded, he threw one of his embroidered gloves violently on the
table before Dudley, who sat opposite.

"Peace, gentlemen," cried Winthrop, rising with dignity, and looking
alternately at one and the other. "Forget not that ye are brethren,
and that upon your harmony depends the prosperity of our Zion, If ye
who are of the household of faith permit idle bickerings to divide
your hearts, how can ye expect the blessing of Heaven on your labors?
If the cement to hold together the stones of the temple be untempered
mortar, must not the fabric fall, and bury the worshippers in its