But such a feeling as that above represented was common, and was by no means held as proof that the parties themselves were quarrelsome or malicious.

It was a part of their religious convictions, and who dares to interfere with the religious convictions of a clergyman?
On the day but one after that on which the Castle Richmond ladies had been thrown from their car on the frosty road, Mr.Townsend and Father Bernard were brought together in an amicable way, or in a way that was intended to be amicable, for the first time in their lives.
The relief committee for the district in which they both lived was one and the same, and it was of course well that both should act on it.

When the matter was first arranged, Father Bernard took the bull by the horns and went there; but Mr.Townsend, hearing this, did not do so.

But now that it had become evident that much work, and for a long time, would have to be performed at these committees, it was clear that Mr.Townsend, as a Protestant clergyman, could not remain away without neglecting his duty.

And so, after many mental struggles and questions of conscience, the parson agreed to meet the priest.
The point had been very deeply discussed between the rector and his wife.