I concede and wish to believe with you that the government needs this weapon, but then let it choose this weapon carefully, let it select the most worthy instruments, and since it prefers to take upon itself authority, rather than have the people grant it, at least let it be seen that it knows how to exercise it." Elias spoke passionately, enthusiastically, in vibrating tones; his eyes flashed.

A solemn pause followed.

The banka, unimpelled by the paddle, seemed to stand still on the water.

The moon shone majestically in a sapphire sky and a few lights glimmered on the distant shore.
"What more do they ask for ?" inquired Ibarra.
"Reform in the priesthood," answered Elias in a sad and discouraged tone.

"These unfortunates ask for more protection against--" "Against the religious orders ?" "Against their oppressors, sir." "Has the Philippines forgotten what she owes to those orders?
Has she forgotten the immense debt of gratitude that is due from her to those who snatched her from error to give her the true faith, to those who have protected her against the tyrannical acts of the civil power?
This is the evil result of not knowing the history of our native land!" The surprised Elias could hardly credit what he heard.