Hull was silent.

``And I guess father does have to do a lot of things in the
course of business---- Don't all the big men --the leaders?''

``Yes--unfortunately they do,'' said Hull. ``That's what gives
plausibility to the shrieks of demagogues like Victor
Dorn--though Victor is too well educated not to know better than
to stir up the ignorant classes.''

``I wonder why he does it,'' said Miss Hastings, reflectively.
``I must ask him. I want to hear what he says to excuse
himself.'' In fact, she had not the faintest interest in the
views of this queer unknown; her chief reason for saying she had
was to enjoy David Hull's jealousy.

``Before you try to meet Victor,'' said Hull, in a constrained,
desperate way, ``please speak to your father about it.''

``I certainly shall,'' replied the girl. ``As soon as he comes
home this afternoon, I'm going to talk to him about that damage
suit. That has got to be straightened out.'' An expression of
resolution, of gentleness and justice abruptly transformed her
face. ``You may not believe it, but I have a conscience.''
Absently, ``A curious sort of a conscience--one that might become
very troublesome, I'm afraid--in some circumstances.''

Instantly the fine side of David Hull's nature was to the
fore--the dominant side, for at the first appeal it always
responded. ``So have I, Jen,'' said he. ``I think our