Note 212 — Chapter VII

Mr. Maurice observes that “this story, which is told of Flavel the Nonconformist, is told also, and upon perfectly good evidence, of Francis Xavier the Jesuit. There is almost a curious resemblance in the words of the two narratives.” (Kingdom of Christ, ii. 344.) I wish to resemble Mr. Maurice’s ideal historian in his honesty and impartiality. I do not introduce the anecdote of Flavel to prove anything respecting his opinions. I take it as I find it—a remarkable psychological fact.