The mother told her evening's experience.
"And you like my friends?"
"Why, Geoffry, you're right to love them. But, now, how came you back so soon from St. What's-his-name?"
"Opposing counsel compromised the case without trial. Mother, it's the greatest professional victory I've ever won."
"Oh, how fine! Geoffry, how are you getting on, professionally, anyhow?"
"Better than my best hope, dear; far better. I've shot right up!"
"Then why do you look so weary and care-worn?"
"I don't. I'm older, that's all, dear."
"Oh! Prospering and care-free, and yet you'd drop everything and go to France, to war."
"No, dearie, no. I'm sorry I wrote you what I did, but I only said I felt like it. I don't now. I envied those Royal Street boys, who could do that with a splendid conscience. I--I can't. I can't go killing men, even murderers, for a remote personal reason. I must wait till my own country calls and my patriotism is pure patriotism. That's higher honor--to her, isn't it?"