"I believe that is the theory—among men who know nothing about women."
"She's doubtless almost prostrated with grief."
"With anxiety, perhaps. Not with grief. Not for a worthless old drunkard."
"You forget, Courtney. He was her father."
Courtney lifted her eyebrows. "So much the more certain she detested him. She had to live right up against him."
Richard leaned forward slightly, to add emphasis to his rebuke. "I repeat, Helen is a good woman—a woman with a sense of duty. She must have loved him."
"Why repeat such twaddle?" inquired Courtney, unimpressed. "What has duty to do with hearts?"
Dick looked strong disapproval. "What is the matter, my dear? You're not talking in the least like yourself."
"You always make that same remark," observed Courtney, "whenever I say anything that does not suit you."
"Are you irritated by the prospect of Helen's coming? If you don't want her——"