The truth is, that it was one of Father Hecker's life-long traits to prove all things, that he might find the good and hold fast to it.

There was an element of justice in his make-up which enabled him to suspend judgment upon any institution or person, however little they seemed to deserve such consideration, until he was in a condition to decide from his own investigations.

We shall see, later on, how he tried all the principal forms of Protestantism before deciding upon Catholicity, strong as his tendency toward the Church had become.

We have never known any other man who, without exhibiting obstinacy, could so steadfastly reserve his judgment on another's statement, especially if it were in the nature of a condemnation.
When Isaac Hecker first made his acquaintance, Mr.Alcott had but recently returned from England, whither he had gone on the invitation of James P.Greaves, a friend and fellow-laborer of the great Swiss educator, Pestalozzi.

Mr.Alcott had gained a certain vogue at home as a lecturer, and also as the conductor of a singular school for young children.