----A nice answer, said Dante, for any man calling himself a catholic to give to his priest.

----They have only themselves to blame, said Mr Dedalus suavely. If they took a fool's advice they would confine their attention to religion.

----It is religion, Dante said. They are doing their duty in warning the people.

----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's 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?

----Nobody is saying a word against them, said Mr Dedalus, so long as they don't meddle in politics.