In our sincerity we may argue, reason
and entreat, but in the presence of another's conscience unconvinced
and utterly opposed to us, where is human slavery to end if one man,
or a vast number of men, have the power to say, 'You shall'?"
Scoville had kept his eyes fixed on Mr. Baron, and saw that he was
almost writhing under the expression of views so repugnant to him--
views which proved his whole scheme of life and action to be wrong.
Now the young man turned his glance suddenly on Miss Lou, and in her
high color, parted lips and kindled eyes, saw abundant proof that
she, as he had wished, was taking to herself the deep personal
application of his words. Her guardians and Mrs. Whately observed
this truth also, and now bitterly regretted that they had invited
the Union officer. It seemed to them a sort of malign fate that he
had been led, unconsciously as they supposed, to pronounce in the
presence of the girl such vigorous condemnation of their action. Had
they not that very day sought to override the will, the conscience,
the whole shrinking, protesting womanhood of the one who had
listened so eagerly as the wrong meditated against her was
explained? Scoville had not left them even the excuse that they
believed they were right, having shown the girl that so many who
believed this were wrong.
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