“I am always afraid of the gratifying argument based on the assumption of superiority; one is apt to be brought down a peg, if ever one indulges in it.”
“I can’t see that much vanity is implied in claiming superiority to the common idiot of commerce,” said the Professor, with a shrug.
“He is in the family,” Hadria reminded him.
“The human family; yes, confound him!” They laughed, and the Professor, after a pause, continued his pleading.
“It only needs a little courage, Hadria. My love, my dear one, don’t shake your head.”
He came forward and sat down on the seat beside her, bending towards her persuasively.
“Promise me to come to town on Friday, Hadria—promise me, dearest.”
“But if—oh, how I hate all the duplicity that this involves! It creates wretched situations, whichever way one turns. I never realized into what a labyrinth it would lead one. I should like to speak out and be honest about it.”
“And your mother?”
“Oh, I know of course——” Hadria set her teeth. “It drives me mad, all this!”