"He can, if he wants to let it alone; but if he is very much tempted, then the pledge is a help."
"What did you and Rupert do such a thing as that for?"
"I wanted to save him."
"Make him take the pledge, then. Why you?"
"How could I ask him to do what I would not do myself? But I've done it, father; now will you join us?"
"Pshaw!" said Mr. Copley, displeased. "Now you have incapacitated yourself from appearing as others do in society. How would you refuse, if you were asked to drink wine with somebody at a dinner-table?"
"Very easily. I should think all women would refuse," said Dolly. "Father, will you join us, and let us all be unfashionable and happy together?"
"Did St. Leger pledge himself?"
"I have not asked him."
"Well, I will if he will."