“I perceive that my uncompromising cousin is moved to protest,” she suggested placidly.
“You ought not to have asked him, Val. It isn't fair to him or to father,” answered Alice promptly. “People will talk. They will say father is trying to influence him unfairly. I wish you hadn't asked him till this fight is over.”
“My dear Nora, does it matter in the least what people say?” yawned Valencia behind her hand.
“Not to you because you consider yourself above criticism. But it matters to me that two honest men should be brought into unjust obloquy without cause.”
“My dear Hothead, they are big enough to look out for themselves.”
“Nobody is big enough to kill slander.”
“Nonsense, child. You make a mountain out of a mole hill. People WILL gossip. It really isn't of the least importance what they gabble about.”
“Especially when you want to amuse yourself by making a fool of Mr. Farnum,” retorted the downright Alice with a touch of asperity.
Valencia already half regretted having asked him. The chances were that he would prove a bore. But she did not choose to say so. “If I'm treading on your preserves, dear,” she ventured sweetly.
“That's ridiculous,” flushed Alice. “I only suggested that you wait till after the election before chaining him to your chariot wheels.”