―We go to the house of God, Mr. Casey said, in all humility to pray to our Maker and not to hear election addresses.
―It is religion, Dante said again. They are right. They must direct their flocks.
―And preach politics from the altar, is it? asked Mr. Dedalus.
―Certainly, said Dante. It is a question of public morality. A priest would not be a priest if he did not tell his flock what is right and what is wrong.
Mrs. Dedalus laid down her knife and fork, saying:
―For pity sake and for pity sake let us have no political discussion on this day of all days in the year.
―Quite right, ma’am, said uncle Charles. Now Simon, that’s quite enough now. Not another word now.
―Yes, yes, said Mr. Dedalus quickly.
He uncovered the dish boldly and said:
―Now then, who’s for more turkey?
Nobody answered. Dante said:
―Nice language for any catholic to use!
― Mrs. Riordan, I appeal to you, said Mrs. Dedalus, to let the matter drop now.
Dante turned on her and said:
―And am I to sit here and listen to the pastors of my church being flouted?