"Yes, in a way," Elsie answered with a thoughtful air. "Still, I don't think it disturbs him as it ought to when he sees that he hasn't done much good. He's witty when he should be firm—and I've sometimes imagined that Dick feels rather flattered than ashamed after the talk."
"I understand. What Dick really needs is a good kicking for being fool enough to try to copy Staffer."
"Couldn't you take him away for a time in the boat?"
"I'll try, but he's not fond of sailing. Then it's a delicate matter. If one could make Staffer understand—"
Elsie gave him a steady look.
"No; I think you'd better not. Uncle Arnold's very kind; mother and I owe him a good deal, and he likes Dick. For all that, he doesn't seem to feel it's his duty to take much trouble—"
Andrew knew she was not saying all that she thought; but he did not press her.
"I will try to find a way," he said. "And now tell me how things have been going since I left."
While they were talking, Dick came up; and not long afterward the two men found themselves alone in the smoking-room.
Andrew put his hands on Dick's shoulders and held him off at arm's length.