the silent variety, of course. Why don't they reform their ways of
living, instead of replacing a worn-out heart with a new one?
They've perfected surgery, that's why! And why haven't they tried
the screw-propeller? They've perfected the bird-wing principle!"

"But that doesn't explain," objected Billie, "why they've been
content with an autocratic system of government."

Van Emmon considered this a dig at Powart. "Why, of course their
government is autocratic, dear! How else can it be protective?"

"You seem to have a lot of admiration for your Mr. Powart," laying
her hand on his.

"I have. He and the others seem to be highly capable fellows, who
have undertaken to maintain happiness, and have made good."

"But without the direct consent of the people."

"What of that?" warmly. "Most folks don't care to burden their heads
with law-making, anyhow. They'd rather leave it up to specialists."

"Who are only too willing, my dear, to handle the matter--at their
own price!"

The doctor put in hastily: "From what you tell me, Van, this
commission determines the living conditions for the majority,
although it has no popular authority whatever. Moreover, conditions
are no better than they were a hundred years ago. There's been no
progress. Powart admits that.