"I believe that I can help you," she concluded, a little lamely. "I want to help—the people. Of course, we Americans believe that a people ought to choose their own rulers—but where that isn't possible, the next best thing is to give them the best available. I should be proud to help do that!"
"But you are taking my word for it," he protested. "You ought to hear the other side. Perhaps they might convince you—"
"No, they wouldn't!" cried Susie. "Your word is all I need; you've explained things so clearly."
"Thank you," he said, in a vibrant voice, still looking at her.
"Besides," she added, with a glance upward, "dad agrees with you, and
I've a great deal of faith in dad."
"I shall be very glad of your help on any terms," he said, refusing to be cast down.
"And you will tell me if anything unexpected happens? I may be able to help you more than you think."
"Yes," he promised, "I will tell you the moment I have any news."
"You haven't any real news—about the undercurrent, I mean? You don't really know—"
"No; it is just in the air; I do not know where the rumours come from, but my aunt has heard them also. There is a vague impression that we are losing."