Mrs. Eaton reddened and her hands shook, but she went on without regarding his anger. “At least, he’s the father of the Cresset speech, you’ll admit that, and, if you please, here is this duel with Jacob—with my son!�
“I believe Jacob was the challenger,� said Colonel Royall.
“He couldn’t stand being insulted by such trash!� said the indignant mother.
The colonel smiled broadly. “Come, Jinny, why did he go there?�
“How should I know?� she retorted hotly; “some political reason, of course, and Trench took advantage of it, as a common man would.�
The colonel began to whittle a stick, man’s resource from time immemorial. “Jinny,� he said, “you’re the greatest partisan on earth; if you could lead a political party you’d cover your antagonist with confusion. When I see Jacob beating his head against a wall I always remember he’s your son.�
Mrs. Eaton’s face relaxed a little. “Jacob takes after my family,� she admitted, smiling; “he’s like them in looks and he has all their charm.�
“Why don’t you say yours, Jinny?� asked the colonel, twinkling.
“I don’t think you half appreciate that,� she replied, with a touch of coquetry; “if you did, you wouldn’t quarrel with me about Caleb Trench.�
“Do I?� said the colonel.