Then Deacon Stearns answered: "Brother Strong, we have to deal with humanity as it is.

You cannot make people all over.

This prejudice exists and sometimes we may have to respect it in order to avoid greater trouble.

I know families in the church who will certainly withdraw if the sexton is voted in as a member.

And still," said the old deacon, with a sigh, "I believe Christ would receive him into His Church." Before much more could be said, the different applicants came, and as the custom was, after a brief talk with them about their purpose in uniting with the church, and their discipleship, they withdrew and the committee formally acted on the names for presentation to the church.
The name of Henry Roland, the sexton, was finally reported unfavorably, three of the committee voting against it, Deacon Stearns at last voting with the minister to present the sexton's name with the others.
"Now, brethren," said Philip, with a sad smile, as they rose to go, "you know I have always been very frank in all our relations together.