"And how do you like your new work, Mr. Eades?" Miss Masters was asking him, and then, without waiting for a reply, she went on: "Do you know, I believe I have not seen you since your election to congratulate you. But we've been keeping watch; we have seen what the papers said."
She smiled suggestively, and Eades inclined his head to acknowledge her tribute.
"I think we are to be congratulated on having you in that position. I think it is very encouraging to find some of our best people in public office."
There was a tribute surely in the emphasis she placed on the adjective, and Eades inclined his head again.
"I really think it was noble in you to accept. It must be very disagreeable to be brought in contact with--you know!" She smiled and nodded as if she could not speak the word. "And you have been so brave and courageous through it all--you are surely to be admired!"
Eades felt suddenly that Miss Masters was not so bad after all; he relished this appreciation, which he took as an evidence of the opinion prevailing in the best circles. He recalled a conversation he had lately had with Elizabeth on this very subject, and, with a sudden impulse to convict her, he said:
"I'm afraid Miss Ward will hardly agree with you."
Miss Masters turned to Elizabeth with an expression of incredulity and surprise.
"Oh, I am sure--" she began.
"I believe she considers me harsh and cruel," Eades went on, smiling, but looking intently at Elizabeth.