I've wanted a serious talk to an American
for some time. I want to know very badly what you think you are up to
with the world,--our world."
"I'm equally anxious to know what England thinks she is doing. Her
ways recently have been a little difficult to understand. On any
hypothesis--that is honourable to her."
"H'm," said Sir Richmond.
"I assure you we don't like it. This Irish business. We feel a sort of
ownership in England. It's like finding your dearest aunt torturing the
cat."
"We must talk of that," said Sir Richmond.
"I wish you would."
"It is a cat and a dog--and they have been very naughty animals. And
poor Aunt Britannia almost deliberately lost her temper. But I admit she
hits about in a very nasty fashion."
"And favours the dog."
"She does."
"I want to know all you admit."
"You shall. And incidentally my friend and I may have the pleasure of
showing you Salisbury and Avebury. If you are free?"
"We're travelling together, just we two. We are wandering about the
south of England on our way to Falmouth. Where I join a father in a few
days' time, and I go on with him to Paris. And if you and your friend
are coming to the Old George--"
"We are," said Sir Richmond.
"I see no great scandal in talking right on to bedtime.
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