Father Brown: The Complete Collection (Father Brown, #1-5)

by G.K. Chesterton

“My friend,” replied Brown, with equal seriousness, “there is one mark of all genuine religions: materialism.

If ever I murdered somebody,” he added quite simply, “I dare say it might be an Optimist.” “Why?” cried Merton amused. “Do you think people dislike cheerfulness?” “People like frequent laughter,” answered Father Brown, “but I don’t think they like a permanent smile. Cheerfulness without humour is a very trying thing.”