``Victor Dorn says we ought to go to work like laborers,''
pursued David. ``But that's where he's a crank. The truth is,
we ought to give the service of leadership--especially in
politics. And I'm going to do it, Jane Hastings!''

For the first time she had an interest in him other than that of
conquest. ``Just what are you going to do?'' she asked.

``Not upset everything and tear everything to pieces, as Victor
Dorn wants to do,'' replied he. ``But reform the abuses and
wrongs--make it so that every one shall have a fair chance--make
politics straight and honest.''

This sounded hazy to her. ``And what will you get out of it?''
asked she.

He colored and was a little uneasy as he thus faced a direct
demand for his innermost secret--the secret of selfishness he
tried to hide even from himself. But there was no evading; if he
would interest her he must show her the practical advantages of
his proposal. ``If I'm to do any good,'' said he, putting the
best face, and really not a bad face, upon a difficult and
delicate matter--``if I'm to do any good I must win a commanding
position--must get to be a popular leader--must hold high
offices--and--and--all that.''

``I understand,'' said she. ``That sounds attractive. Yes,
David, you ought to make a career. If I were a man that's the
career I'd choose.''