What is the use of verifying them so far as believers are concerned?
_They_ merely have to bow down and believe.

And what is the use, too, as regards the unbelievers?
_They_ will never be convinced.

The work we do here is so much foolishness." Doctor Bonamy severely ordered him to hold his tongue.

"You are a rebel, Raboin," said he; "I shall tell Father Capdebarthe that I won't have you here any longer since you pass your time in sowing disobedience." Nevertheless, there was truth in what had just been said by this man, who so promptly showed his teeth, eager to bite whenever his faith was assailed; and Pierre looked at him with sympathy.

All the work of the Verification Office--work anything but well performed--was indeed useless, for it wounded the feelings of the pious, and failed to satisfy the incredulous.