"That would be a calamity," Burgoyne answered. "However, we'll hope for the best."
"Are you thinking of entering the lists?"
"Go to, again! I said I'm interested for our friend!"
"How?"
"To see if Miss Emerson is worthy of the distinguished honor in store for her."
"What earthly good will your 'seeing' do, if you don't tell Devereux what you think?"
"None in the world, my friend!—It's pure——"
"Curiosity," Pendleton interjected. "I thought that you had overcome your early affliction by travel."
"Which is worse—curiosity or a grouch?" laughed Burgoyne.
"Neither is worse—they both are reprehensible and to be avoided. I'll make you a proposition—I'll get rid of my cynicism, pessimism or grouch, if you will get rid of your curiosity, or interest in the affairs of others, as you term it. Is it a bargain?"