I understand from your words to my daughter that you, Bastin, teach a faith that is new to me, and that this faith tells of life eternal for the children of earth.

Is it so ?" "It is," said Bastin eagerly.

"I will set out--" Oro cut him short with a wave of the hand.
"Not now in the presence of Bickley who doubtless disbelieves your faith, as he does all else, holding it with justice or without, to be but another illusion.

Yet you shall teach me and on it I will form my own judgment." "I shall be delighted," said Bastin.

Then a doubt struck him, and he added: "But why do you wish to learn?
Not that you may make a mock of my religion, is it ?" "I mock at no man's belief, because I think that what men believe is true--for them.