To take such expressions as literal statements of fact runs so counter to the experience of Christians from day one as to undermine any belief in them. A literary pedancy makes such biblical language less credible, not more credible.

Upon the espaulieres are placed pauldrons, also ridged, with the edges turned up, so as to form the prototypes of pass-guards.

Presently the white, broken stumps, the split sticks and the tangle of the thicket refocused.

Nat knew, though he had never seen one, that there were such things as joint snakes and hoop snakes.