“This is important,” she said. “We must take a position. We must insist to Mr. Aidee on a position.” She drew herself up and paused. “People will ask our position.”
Alberta opened her soft blue eyes widely. “Will you write a poem about Wood and Hicks, really?”
“My dear, what is your opinion?” Mrs. Tillotson asked.
“Scrumptious!” said Alberta.
Mrs. Tillotson hesitated.
“I will consult Mr. Aidee. The Assembly must take a position.”
It was Mrs. Tillotson's latest theory that she was the power behind the throne. Genius must be supported, guided, controlled. She referred to Chateaubriand and Madame Récamier, a reference furnished her by Berry.
“Countenance crime!” cried Ralbeck. “Everybody countenances crime.”
Alberta opened her eyes a shade wider.
“Except crimes of technique,” Berry murmured softly. “You don't countenance a man who sings off the key. Curious! I do.”