"The view traditionally ascribed to Providence—with a most distressing corollary!"
"I think, if a fellow's come a mucker, he ought to have another chance," said Arthur.
"That's what my criminals always tell me from the dock, Mr. Lisle."
"And what women say when they run away from their husbands," added Norton Ward with a laugh. "By the way, I was talking to Elphinstone the other day about the effect this Divorce Reform movement might have if either party really took it up in earnest, and he was inclined to——"
"Shall we hear Sir John Elphinstone's views on this beautiful morning?" asked the Judge.
Norton Ward laughed again—at himself. "Oh, I beg your pardon! But after all it is some time since we touched on anything of practical interest."
"If death and judgment aren't of practical interest, I'll be hanged if I know what is!"
"But neither of them exactly of immediate interest, Judge, we'll hope!"
"Well, what are you all talking about?" asked a voice from behind the group. Bernadette stood there, with parasol and prayer-book. She had been to church with Godfrey, Margaret, and Judith.
"Death and judgment, Bernadette," said Esther.