We none of us quite understood what were her exact ideas on the
subject of revealed religion. Somebody, I think, had told her that
there were among us one or two whose opinions were not exactly
orthodox according to the doctrines of the established English
church. If so, she was determined to show us that she also was
advanced beyond the prejudices of an old and dry school of theology.
"I have thrown down all the barriers of religion," she said to poor
Mrs. Mackinnon, "and am looking for the sentiments of a pure
Christianity."

"Thrown down all the barriers of religion!" said Mrs. Mackinnon, in
a tone of horror which was not appreciated.

"Indeed, yes," said Mrs. Talboys, with an exulting voice. "Are not
the days for such trammels gone by?"

"But yet you hold by Christianity?"

"A pure Christianity, unstained by blood and perjury, by hypocrisy
and verbose genuflection. Can I not worship and say my prayers
among the clouds?" And she pointed to the lofty ceiling and the
handsome chandelier.

"But Ida goes to church," said Mrs. Mackinnon. Ida Talboys was her
daughter. Now, it may be observed, that many who throw down the
barriers of religion, so far as those barriers may affect
themselves, still maintain them on behalf of their children. "Yes,"
said Mrs. Talboys; "dear Ida! her soft spirit is not yet adapted to
receive the perfect truth. We are obliged to govern children by the
strength of their prejudices." And then she moved away, for it was