'Well, what of it?' said a voice. 'Women must do something for their keep.'
'You complain that more and more we're taking away from you men the work that's always been yours. You can't any longer keep woman out of the industries. The only question is, on what terms shall she continue to be in? As long as she's in on bad terms, she's not only hurting herself, she's hurting you. But if you're feeling discouraged about our competing with you, we're willing to leave you your trade in war. Let the men take life! We give life!' Her voice was once more moved and proud. 'No one will pretend ours isn't one of the dangerous trades either. I won't say any more to you now, because we've got others to speak to you, and a new woman helper that I want you to hear.'
With an accompaniment of clapping she retired to hold a hurried consultation with the chairman.
Jean turned to see how Geoffrey had taken it. 'Well?'
He smiled down at her, echoing, 'Well?'
'Nothing so very reprehensible in what she said, was there?'
'Oh, "reprehensible"!'
'It makes one rather miserable all the same.'
He pressed his guardian arm the closer. 'You mustn't take it as much to heart as all that.'
'I can't help it. I can't indeed, Geoffrey. I shall never be able to make a speech like that.'