"Of course.... But—with your mother gone—it was—lonely. Do you understand, now, why I took Steve when I had the chance?"
The young fellow nodded, looking at his father:
"Of course I understand. But I don't see why Steve had to go. She has everything here to amuse her—everything a girl could desire! Why the deuce should she get restless and go flying about after knowledge?"
"Possibly," said John Cleland, "the child has a mind."
"A feminine one. Yes, of course. I tell you, Father, it's all part and parcel of this world-wide restlessness which has set women fidgeting the whole world over. What is it they want?—because they themselves can't tell you. Do you know?"
"I think I do. They desire to exercise the liberty of choice."
"They have it now, haven't they?"
"Virtually. They're getting the rest. If Steve goes through college she will emerge to find all paths open to women. It worries me a little."
Jim shrugged:
"What is it she calls it—I mean her attitude about choosing a career?"