"He said something like that in his own defense. Let me see—he said the national politics was the great mother of all lesser political plays, and that at such elections he had cast his vote just as you and your preacher have always done. Therefore, as you were temperance men, so he was a temperance man. How was that for argument?"
Judge Thorn laughed.
"Well, I should not wonder if he were as much of a temperance man as some other folks, after all."
"The more shame for the 'other folks,'" said Jean, a touch of sternness in her voice.
"Have it that way if you wish, but to the original question. I am in no hurry for you to marry, but I suppose you will some time, and Allison is a square man. What he has done in this business move he has done not because he has changed his views on some matters, but all for the love of a woman, and that means much, my girl, these days of fortune hunters and deceivers."
"All for the love of a woman," Jean repeated softly to herself. "That is what he said."
They were both silent a few seconds.
"You have not answered my question, Jean."
"Ah! I forgot, father. You asked me why I could not promise to be the wife of Mr. Allison. I will tell you, as I told him, and I think you will understand as he did.