Thatcher loomed formidably as a candidate for the leadership, and many predicted that Bassett's power was at last broken.
On the other hand, Bassett's old lieutenants smiled knowingly; the old Bassett machine was still in perfect running order, they said, as Thatcher would learn when he felt the wheels grinding him.
Bassett saw Sylvia daily, and he was wary of her at first.

She had dealt him a staggering blow that rainy evening at the door of Elizabeth House--a blow which, from her, had an effect more poignant than she knew.

That incident was ended, however, and he felt that he had nothing to fear from her.

No one appreciates candor so thoroughly as the man who is habitually given to subterfuge, evasion, and dissimulation.

Sylvia's consent to tutor Blackford indicated a kindly feeling toward the family.
It was hardly likely that she would report to Mrs.Bassett his indiscretions with Rose Farrell.