"As a rule, I think men care much more about the particularities than God, yes," Combeferre said, half to himself and with a rueful smile. He was silent for a long moment, thoughtful again. "The mass was not quite what I expected." It had been softer, somehow, easier - in English, with muted ceremony, and an easy message of goodwill and family togetherness. "But- can we really complain? The Church has always shown its worst colors when it has refused change, and turned its back on the course of Progress. But if one demands that clergy adapt, one should not be so surprised by the result."

He shook his head a little, reddening. "I am very sorry. I'm getting too philosophical."