T. Thou hast well said, Mary, that they worship only with words. They worship only words. God is not worshiped. They ask in words, but words never work, without deeds, the reform of mind. They desire with words, that God would reform minds; but they never reflect, that reforms are works. Alas! they will not reform themselves, and do works meet for repentance, because they are blind in the conceit of words. Thou seest their great mistake. Not till they shall see that God is not pleased with their words, and words only, will they look for a change in themselves. So long as they seek to establish a religion of words, they will neglect a religion of works. When they shall learn that God is just, and that they have their portion in company with hypocrites and unbelievers, they will not rest in words alone. M. But thou seest they will not reform, because they are blind. When their blindness shall be removed, they will see something. T. Truly: They will see themselves, not as they now see, but as God sees them. They will see that repentance must begin with them. They will see that words will not save. They will see that hypocrites will not be cut off because they have no words; neither will unbelievers fail of a recompense on that account. Thou knowest words entice sinners, and sinners use enticing words; but the mind without this castle relies on works of wisdom. The deacon concluded his invocation, and I said, “What art thou praying for?” He replied, “I want the wicked to be saved.” T. From what dost thou desire their salvation? D. From the wrath of God, and the damnation of hell. T. Dost thou expect that words will serve thy design? D. Thou knowest that God has commanded all men to pray, and that the fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. T. I wish to know, if words will save? D. Words will find favor with God. T. Will they cause God to save a wretched mind? D. They will avail much. T. With whom? D. With God. T. How much will they avail? D. They will save the soul from perdition. T. What will save a soul from perdition? D. The prayer of the righteous. T. Have thy prayers saved thee? D. I trust they will save my soul, if I am faithful. T. Faithful in what? D. Faithful in my duty. T. What is thy duty? D. To obey God. T. What is obedience to God? D. Obedience to God is complying with his commands. T. Hast thou complied with his commands? D. I would try to do so. T. Hast thou done as God has commanded thee? D. I have come short of his glory. T. Will thy prayers save thee, when thou art not as he commands? D. I will obey. T. When? D. When I pray, I pray for my forgiveness. T. Dost thou expect God will hear without repentance? D. I do repent when I pray. T. What are thy works? D. I see, you want me to be what you are.