Emilius. She had a dean for an
uncle, and a bishop for an uncle-in-law; but she was at no pains to hide
her contempt for these old fogies of the church.
"They preach now and then in the cathedral," she said to Mr. Emilius, "and
everybody takes the opportunity of going to sleep." Mr. Emilius was very
much amused at this description of the eloquence of the dignitaries. It
was quite natural to him that people should go to sleep in church who take
no trouble in seeking eloquent preachers.
"Ah," he said, "the church in England, which is my church, the church
which I love, is beautiful. She is as a maiden, all glorious with fine
raiment. But, alas, she is mute. She does not sing. She has no melody. But
the time cometh in which she shall sing. I, myself, I am a poor singer in
the great choir." In saying which Mr. Emilius no doubt intended to allude
to his eloquence as a preacher.
He was a man who could listen as well as sing, and he was very careful to
hear well that which was being said in public about Lady Eustace and her
diamonds. He had learned thoroughly what was her condition in reference to
the Portray estate, and was rejoiced rather than otherwise to find that
she enjoyed only a life-interest in the property.
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