There are crises when the "peace-at-any-price" doctrine becomes a weakness- -more, an absolute wrong.

Much as she would have suffered, and had suffered, so long as all the suffering lay with herself alone, when it came to involve another, she saw her course was clear.

As Arthur stood by her, convulsed with sobs crying at one minute, "Mother, it's not fair, I meant no harm," and the next, clenching his little fist with, "If Phillis touches me, I'll murder Phillis," she felt that it was no longer a question of pleasantness or ease, or even of saving her husband from pain.

It became a matter or duty--her duty to act to the best of her conscience and ability toward the children whom Providence had sent to her.

It was no kindness to her husband to allow these to be sacrificed, as, if she did not stand firm, Arthur might be sacrificed for life.
So she sat still, uttering not a word except an occasional whisper of "Be quiet, Arthur," until Dr.Grey entered the room.