The remark was suggested by Philip's stooping over Margaret under the pretence of whispering to her, but really to kiss her--being tempted to do so by the look she had given him. William Smith joined the party.
"We've settled it all," said Philip to him.
"All what?"
"About the christening. Margaret will set the machine a-going."
But William Smith had settled it another way. "Margaret can christen the next machine," he said. "The Warden's lady will christen this."
"The Warden's lady will do no such thing!" cried Philip.
"She has promised to do so," replied William Smith calmly. "Don't be a fool, Philip. Who has it in his power to be our best friend in the Margaret Reef? The Goldfields Warden. Who grants leases, who settles all disputes as to boundaries and encroachments, who, in short, rules Silver Creek? The Goldfields Warden. Who rules the Goldfields Warden? His wife. Nothing can be clearer."
Dissatisfied Philip refused to see the logic of the argument. But William Smith was wise in his generation; he was very desirous of ingratiating himself into the good graces of the lady who was at the head of society in Silver Creek, knowing the value of her influence. He made further efforts to convince Philip, but Philip would not be convinced. Love and prudence were at daggers drawn within him. William Smith appealed to Margaret.
"You are a girl of sense. It is for Philip's good."
"Mr. Smith is right," said Margaret to Philip. "I don't care a pin about it."