'I proposed to tell him myself,' smiled Liffey, 'or to let Cummins break the news.'
'If he knows that, he must consent to go.' She glanced at Liffey. 'My credit's at stake too, you see.' It cost her something to say this.
'You went bail for him, did you?' Liffey was friendly, contemptuous, and even compassionate.
'I thought well of him, and said so to George Glentorly. I ask it as a friend.'
'As a friend you must have it. But make it clear. He resigns in three days—or article, letter, and Alured Cummins!'
'I'll make it clear—and thank you,' said Mrs. Bonfill. 'I know it's a sacrifice.'
'I'd have had no mercy on him,' laughed Liffey. 'As it is, I must vamp up something dull and innocuous to get myself out of my promise to the public.'
'I think he'll be punished enough.'
'Perhaps. But look how I suffer!'
'There are sinners left, enough and to spare.'