"0h, well," exclaimed Mrs. Hildreth, "of course one cannot grudge the moneyfor that. Professional singing is such an attraction! The way MadameRialto took that high C last Sunday was superb."

"Well," exclaimed Isabelle, "I don't think there is any doubt that DoctorJerome is the most popular preacher in the city. He is going to preachnext Sunday on the moral progress of social sciences, and next month hecommences his series of sermons on the social problems of the day. Hedoes take such an interest in sociology."

"But why doesn't he preach Jesus Christ?" asked Evadne wonderingly.

"You will get to be a regular fanatic, Evadne, if you ring the changeson that subject so occasionally. Doctor Jerome says he wants his people to havean intelligent idea of the progress of events. 0f course everyoneunderstands the Bible.

"I do think he is the loveliest man!" she continued rapturously, "he isso sympathetic; and Celeste Follingsby says he is 'perfectly heavenly inaffliction.' Her little sister died last month, you know. It is soawkward that it should have happened just now. She will not be able totake any part in the Cantata, and she had the sweetest dress!"

"Very ill-timed of Providence!" said Louis gravely. "What a pity it is,Isabelle, that you couldn't have the regulation of affairs." He yawnedand strolled lazily towards the fireplace. When he looked round again,Evadne was the only other occupant of the chamber.

"Well, coz, what do you think of the situation? I belong to theworldlings, of course, but I confess the idea of Jesus Christ at aButterfly Social is tremendously incongruous. We sometimes have the best of it,Evadne, for we live up to our theories. Give it up, coz. You'll find ita hopeless task to make the Bible and modern Christianity agree."

He looked at his watch.

"I say, Evadne, Jefferson is playing at the Metropolitan in Richard III.to-night. Let us go and hear him."