"We're all very well, but we're not the
men our fathers were: we need a lot of licking into shape.
Look at that disgraceful business of ours in the Ontario
legislature the other day, and look at that fellow of
yours walking out of office at Westminster last session
because of a disastrous business connection which he was
morally as clear of as you or I! I tell you we've got to
hang on to the things that make us ashamed; and I guess
we've got sense enough to know it. But this is my corner.
I am going to look in at the Milburns', Advena. Good
night, Mr Finlay."
Advena, walking on with Finlay, became suddenly aware
that he had not once addressed her. She had the quick
impression that Lorne left him bereft of a refuge; his
plight heartened her.
"If the politicians on both sides were only as mutually
appreciative," she said, "the Empire would soon be knit."
For a moment he did not answer. "I am afraid the economic
situation is not quite analogous," he said, stiffly and
absently, when the moment had passed.
"Why does your brother always call me 'Mr' Finlay?" he
demanded presently. "It isn't friendly."
The note of irritation in his voice puzzled her. "I think
the form is commoner with us," she said, "even among men
who know each other fairly well." Her secret glance
flashed over the gulf that nevertheless divided Finlay
and her brother, that would always divide them.
Pages:
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224