“How do you and Betty agree on Emerson?” he asked gravely.
“Emerson?” Phillip stared blankly.
“Emerson? Who is he?” Betty looked perplexed.
Kingsford laughed and turned back to Miss Wayland.
Phillip could hear him talking in low tones to her and presently she was laughing softly. Betty demanded to be told. Betty’s demands were already law. Phillip explained. Betty frowned charmingly.
“Everett’s always making fun of me,” she declared. “I’m afraid you’ve already discovered how ignorant I am, Mr. Ryerson. I—I don’t know a thing, really and truly! Do you care much for Emerson and Thoreau?”
“Hate them both,” answered Phillip heartily.
“Oh, but you mustn’t hate them!”
“Mustn’t I?”