They are the Learned Muses, as a matter
of fact. "What are those figures, Jack?" said an ardent sister,
labouring under the false feminine impression that men like
explaining things. "Those," said Jack, observing them for the first
time in his life--"those are Faith, Hope, and Charity, of course."
"Oh! but there are FOUR of them," said the irrepressible fair one.
"What is the other?" Jack, not to be dismayed, gave a hasty glance;
and, observing what may be called philosophical instruments in the
hands of the statue, said firmly, "that is Geography." It made a
charming quaternion.
I have often felt myself that the time has come to raise another
figure to the hierarchy of Christian Graces. Faith, Hope, and
Charity, were sufficient in a more elementary and barbarous age;
but, now that the world has broadened somewhat, I think an addition
to the trio is demanded. A man may be faithful, hopeful, and
charitable, and yet leave much to be desired. He may be useful, no
doubt, with that equipment, but he may also be both tiresome, and
even absurd.
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