When Caroline Wynn heard of that extraordinary conversation her amazement knew no bounds. Yet Alwyn ventured to voice doubts:
"I'm not fitted for either of those high offices; there are many others who deserve more, and I don't somehow like the idea of seeming to have worked hard in the campaign simply for money or fortune. You see, I talked against that very thing."
Miss Wynn's eyes widened.
"Well, what else—" she began and then changed. "Mr. Alwyn, the line between virtue and foolishness is dim and wavering, and I should hate to see you lost in that marshy borderland. By a streak of extraordinary luck you have gained the political leadership of Negroes in America. Here's your chance to lead your people, and here you stand blinking and hesitating. Be a man!"
Alwyn straightened up and felt his doubts going. The evening passed very pleasantly.
"I'm going to have a little dinner for you," said Miss Wynn finally, and Alwyn grew hot with pleasure. He turned to her suddenly and said:
"Why, I'm rather—black." She expressed no surprise but said reflectively:
"You are dark."
"And I've been given to understand that Miss Wynn and her set rather—well, preferred the lighter shades of colored folk."
Miss Wynn laughed lightly.