'No; there can be no heartburn to me in your being selected, for though I am older than you, you are my senior in the office.

But were I to be put over your head, it would in the course of nature make a division between us; and if it were possible that you should forgive it, it would be quite impossible that Gertrude should do so.

I value your friendship and that of the Woodwards too highly to risk it.' Norman instantly fired up with true generous energy.

'I should be wretched,' said he, 'if I thought that such a consideration weighed with you; I would rather withdraw myself than allow such a feeling to interfere with your prospects.

Indeed, after what you have said, I shall not send in my own name unless you also send in yours.' 'I shall only be creating fuel for a feud,' said Alaric.