"Those of us who have been for Stephanie all through can take courage—our course has been approved by the ultimate authority," Gladys observed. "If we hadn't been staunch for our friend, the Queen wouldn't have come around."
"She'll hear you, Gladys," warned Mrs. Burleston.
"Let her—I would confide the same thing to her, if she asked me.—I've never come under her authority. I'll double your three hearts, Helen."
"By!" said Miss Tazewell, after a pause to consider whether she should take her partner out of it.
"By!" said Miss Rutledge promptly.
"I'll go back—your lead, Gladys," said Mrs. Burleston.
There was silence until the last card fell—Mrs. Burleston had made good her contract.
"That's ninety-six below, and a hundred above, and simple honors," said Miss Chamberlain, as she put down the score. "You had a bully hand, Helen."
On the next deal, Miss Rutledge was the declarant. Gladys spread out her cards; then, with a significant look at Pendleton, arose and moved out to the rail.
"What else have you to tell me?" she said, as he joined her.