"Just enough for my own amusement," laughed the younger man. "I know a few notes."
"Be not quick to believe him, Father. He plays beautifully."
Mr. Allison sat down.
"Accomplishments are useful ornaments. Nowadays a man succeeds best who can best impress. People want to see one's gifts."
"The greatest of talents often lie buried. Prosperity thrives on pretense."
"True. I'm beginning to think that way myself, the way things 're going."
"With the war?" he asked.
"With everything. I think Congress will fail to realize its boasts, and Arnold is a huge pretender, and——"
"He has lost favor with the people."