Your action would pain your mother more than my father's words have done--I am sure of that.' The hymn was finished, but Shine read out the last verse once more.

His concern was now obvious, and the congregation was wrought to an unprecedented pitch.

Never had a hymn been so badly sung in that chapel.
It was taken up again without spirit, a few quavering voices carrying it on regardless of time and tune.

Chris had noted Harry's indecision.
'Do not stay and shame yourself.

Go, and you will be glad you did not do this wicked thing.