did to look at."

That was the reason why Leonore had not cried till Peter had finished
his speech. We don't charge women with crying whenever they wish, but we
are sure that they never cry when they have anything better to do.

CHAPTER XL.

OPINIONS.

When the ride was ended, Leonore was sent home in the carriage, Watts
saying he would go with Peter to his club. As soon as they were in the
cab, he said:

"I wanted to see you about your letter."

"Well?"

"Everything's going as well as can be expected. Of course the little
woman's scandalized over your supposed iniquity, but I'm working the
heavy sentimental 'saved-our-little-girl's life' business for all it's
worth. I had her crying last night on my shoulder over it, and no woman
can do that and be obstinate long. She'll come round before a great
while."

Peter winced. He almost felt like calling Watts off from the endeavor.
But he thought of Leonore. He must see her--just to prove to himself
that she was not for him, be it understood--and how could he see enough
of her to do that--for Peter recognized that it would take a good deal
of that charming face and figure and manner to pall on him--if he was
excluded from her home? So he justified the continuance of the attempt
by saying to himself: "She only excludes me because of something of
which I am guiltless, and I've saved her from far greater suffering than
my presence can ever give her. I have earned the privilege if ever man
earned it" Most people can prove to themselves what they wish to prove.
The successful orator is always the man who imposes his frame of mind on
his audience. We call it "saying what the people want said." But many of
the greatest speakers first suggest an idea to their listeners, and when
they say it in plain English, a moment later, the audience say,
mentally, "That's just what we thought a moment ago," and are convinced
that the speaker is right.

Peter remained silent, and Watts continued: "We get into our own house
to-morrow, and give Leonore a birthday dinner Tuesday week as a
combined house-warming and celebration. Save that day, for I'm
determined you shall be asked. Only the invitation may come a little
late. You won't mind that?"

"No. But don't send me too many of these formal things. I keep out of
them as much as I can. I'm not a society man and probably won't fit in
with your friends."

"I should know you were not _de societe_ by that single speech. If
there