"
"But, my love, as I observed, there are so many circumstances to be
taken into account. You know as well as I do in what aspect I view
the Allens, and what my sentiments with regard to them are--
personally that is to say, and not as minister of the gospel.
Perhaps Providence, my dear, intends this opportunity as a means
whereby the emotions of my poor sinful nature--emotions which may
have been uncharitable--may be converted into brotherly love. Then
we must recollect that Isaac is a prominent member of the church and
a deacon. Thirdly, in all probability, if we do not permit Priscilla
to marry George, offence will be taken and they may withdraw their
subscription, which, I believe, comes altogether to twenty pounds per
annum. Fourthly, the Allens have been blessed with an unusual share
of worldly prosperity, and George is about to become a partner.
Fifthly and lastly"--Mr. Broad had acquired a habit of dividing his
most ordinary conversation into heads--"it is by no means improbable
that I may need a co-pastor before long, and we shall secure the
Allens' powerful influence in favour of Thomas."
Mrs. Broad felt the full force of these arguments.
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