As to the commuting gentleman: before his first ticket was all punched up, he would be ready to vow that the commuter's life is the only ideal existence.
Having thus offered unattackable arguments, I deem a decision in our favour a foregone conclusion, and I take pleasure in sitting down." "A very successful speech," said Patty, smiling at her uncle.

"We will now be pleased to hear from the next speaker on the affirmative side.
Mrs.Charles Elliott, will you kindly speak what is on your mind ?" "I will," said Mrs.Elliott, with a nod of her head that betokened Fairfield decision of character.

"I will say exactly what is on my mind without regard to which side I am on." "Oh, that isn't fair!" cried Patty.

"A debate is a debate, you know, and you must make up opinions for your own side, whether you think them or not." "Very well," said Aunt Alice, smiling a little, "then it being thoroughly understood that I am not speaking the truth, I will say that I think it better for Patty to live in New York.

As her father will be away all day at his business, she will enjoy the loneliness of a big brown-stone city house; she will enjoy the dark rooms and the entire absence of grass and flowers and trees, which she hates anyway; instead of picnics and boating parties, she can go to stiff and formal afternoon teas; and, instead of attending her young people's club here, she can become a member of the Society of Social Economics." With an air of having accomplished her intention, Aunt Alice sat down amid great cheers and handclappings from the opposite side.
Patty looked a little sober as she began to think the Vernondale home would win; and, though for many reasons she wished it would be so, yet, at the same time, she realised very strongly the attractions of life in New York City.
However, she only said: "The meeting will please come to order, in order to listen to the opinions of Miss Elliott." Marian rose with great dignity, and addressed the chair and the ladies and gentlemen with true parliamentary punctiliousness.
"Though personally interested in this matter," she began, "it is not my intention to allow my own wishes or prejudices to blind me to the best interests of our young friend who is now under discussion.