You see, he thinks more of your opinion than he does of
anybody's, and he wants your approval. If you could jump right in and say
you think it's a bully idea, and that you are coming out to see what he
has done, and----"
"Do you want me to lie?" Madam demanded fiercely.
"No," said Quin, laughing; "I am trying to warm you up to the project
now, so you won't have to lie." Then, seeing her face relax a little, he
leaned toward her and said in his most persuasive tone:
"See here, now! I did my best to straighten Mr. Ranny out. He's making
the fight of his life to keep straight. It's up to you to stand by us.
You don't want to pitch the fat back in the fire, do you?"
They had reached the big house on Third Avenue, and the carriage was
slowing up at the curbing. Quin, receiving no answer to his question,
carefully helped Madam up the steps and into the house, where black
Hannah was waiting to receive her.
"You can't come in," said Madam gruffly. "I am tired. I will see you some
other time."
"All right," said Quin. "What time shall I come Saturday afternoon?"
"Saturday afternoon? Why then?"
"To go out to Mr. Ranny's farm."
For an instant they measured glances; then Quin began to laugh--a
confident, boyish laugh full of teasing affection.
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