"The rest of you! Emily, you have never succumbed."
"Oh, yes, I have. I seem to be saying, 'He may have a few weaknesses, but back of it all he is big and fine.' But Hilda's attitude indicates, 'He is not fine at all.' And you hate that and want to show her."
He chuckled. "By Jove, I do, Emily. Perhaps it is just as well that I am getting away from her."
"I wouldn't admit it if I were you. I'd rather see you face a thing than run away."
"If Eve had run away from the snake in the apple tree, she would not have lost her Eden—poor Eve."
"Poor Adam—to follow her lead. He should have said, 'No, my dear, apples are not permitted by the Food Administrator; we must practice self-denial.'"
"I think I'd rather have him sinning than such a prig."
"It depends on the point of view."
He enjoyed immensely crossing swords with Emily. There was never any aftermath of unpleasantness. She soothed him even while she criticised.
They spoke presently of Jean and Derry.