“The possession of property, or of sufficient property to give one individual an advantage over his fellows is inconsistent with Christianity.  Hence it will be done away with, but only when enough have been emancipated to carry this into effect.  Hence the saying of our Lord about the needle’s eye—­the danger to the soul of him who owns much property.”

“And how about your Christian view of the world as a vale of tears?” Eldon Parr inquired.

“So long as humanity exists, there will always be tears,” admitted the rector.  “But it is a false Christianity which does not bid us work for our fellow-men, to relieve their suffering and make the world brighter.  It is becoming clear that the way to do this effectively is through communities, cooperation, through nations, and not individuals.  And this, if you like, is practical,—­so practical that the men like you, who have gained unexampled privilege, fear it more and more.  The old Christian misconception, that the world is essentially a bad place, and which has served the ends of your privilege, is going by forever.  And the motto of the citizens of the future will be the Christian motto, ‘I am my brother’s keeper.’  The world is a good place because the Spirit is continually working in it, to make it better.  And life is good, if only we take the right view of it,—­the revealed view.”

“What you say is all very fine,” said Eldon Parr.  “And I have heard it before, from the discontented, the socialists.  But it does not take into account the one essential element, human nature.”

“On the other hand, your scheme of life fails to reckon with the greater factor, divine nature,” Hodder replied.

“When you have lived as long as I have, perhaps you will think differently, Mr. Hodder.”  Eldon Parr’s voice had abruptly grown metallic, as though the full realization had come over him of the severity of the clergyman’s arraignment; the audacity of the man who had ventured to oppose him and momentarily defeated him, who had won the allegiance of his own daughter, who had dared condemn him as an evil-doer and give advice as to his future course.  He, Eldon Parr, who had been used to settle the destinies of men!  His anger was suddenly at white heat; and his voice, which he strove to control, betrayed it.

“Since you have rejected my offer, which was made in kindness, since you are bent on ruining my daughter’s life as well as your own, and she has disregarded my wishes, I refuse to see either of you, no matter to what straits you may come, as long as I live.  That is understood.  And she leaves this house to-day, never to enter it again.  It is useless to prolong this conversation, I think.”