A few such commonplaces passed between them, then Dorothy referred to Elliott’s speech, which she had listened to with interest.
“I was so suddenly called upon that I did little justice to the subject, and it is a subject of such grave responsibility. But perhaps it is just as well that I did not have time to present it more strongly for it appears to have been already misunderstood, and I hear that not a few have branded me with all sorts of bad names. I trust I have not fallen under your condemnation.”
“Well, to be frank, I think you exhibited a somewhat fanatical anxiety to lecture people differently circumstanced,” she answered gravely. “Yet I did not condemn you. I hope you give me credit for more liberality than that. You are new to our land, and have much to grow accustomed to. We should not expect you at once to see this matter as we do,” was the evasive reply.
“She certainly does not lack the courage of her convictions,” he thought. Then aloud:
“You evidently think I shall alter my views?” this in his airily candid manner; “I stated the true conditions of affairs, just as I understand them.”
“There is the trouble. The true condition is not as you and many others understand it.”
“Then let us hope that I may fully comprehend before a great while. I at least intend to make the best of this opportunity, for, as you may know, I have settled permanently in Georgetown.”
She looked up with a beautiful aloofness in her eyes. The brave mouth, with its full, sensitive lips, was strong, yet delicate.
“I am glad to hear that, for then you can hardly fail, sooner or later, to feel as we do about the subject of your to-day’s discussion. I hope to help you to think kindly of your new home.”
“Nothing could be more comforting than this from you,” he assured her, with that frank manner which suited well the fearless expression of his face. “I am now delightfully quartered with my kinsman, Mr. Field, whose acres join yours, I believe; so we shall be neighbors.”