'He'll run and distance us all.
There is no one who has a chance with him.

Why, he is Sir Gregory's own pet.' There was nothing more said on the subject at Surbiton Cottage.
The ladies seemed instinctively to perceive that it was a matter which they had better leave alone.

Not only were the two young men to be pitted against each other, but Gertrude and Linda were as divided in their wishes on the subject as the two candidates could be themselves.
On the following morning, however, Norman introduced the subject.
'I suppose you were only jesting yesterday,' said he, 'when you told the captain that you were not going to be a candidate ?' 'Indeed I can hardly say that I was in jest or in earnest,' said Alaric.

'I simply meant to decline to discuss the subject with Uncle Bat.' 'But of course you do mean to stand ?' said Harry.

Alaric made no answer.
'Perhaps you would rather decline to discuss the matter with me also ?' said Harry.
'Not at all; I would much prefer discussing it openly and honestly.