[Two Years Ago, Volume II. by Charles Kingsley]@TWC D-Link bookTwo Years Ago, Volume II. CHAPTER XXIII 9/14
Is it not becoming such once more in Europe now? And what divine exemption can we claim from the law? What right have we to suppose that it will be aught else, as long as there are wrongs unredressed on earth; as long as anger and ambition, cupidity and wounded pride, canker the hearts of men? What if the wise man's attitude, and the wise nation's attitude, is that of the Jews rebuilding their ruined walls,--the tool in one hand, and the sword in the other; for the wild Arabs are close outside, and the time is short, and the storm has only lulled awhile in mercy, that wise men may prepare for the next thunder-burst? It is an ugly fact: but I have thrust it away too long, and I must accept it now and henceforth.
This, and not luxurious Broadway; this, and not the comfortable New England village, is the normal type of human life; and this is the model city!--Armed industry, which tills the corn and vine among the cannons' mouths; which never forgets their need, though it may mask and beautify their terror: but knows that as long as cruelty and wrong exist on earth, man's destiny is to dare and suffer, and, if it must be so, to die.... "Yes, I will face my work; my danger, if need be.
I will find Marie.
I will tell her that I accept her quest; not for her sake, but for its own.
Only I will demand the right to work at it as I think best, patiently, moderately, wisely if I can; for a fanatic I cannot be, even for her sake.
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