It would be something to me that Mr Palliser should become the friend of any dear friend of mine,--especially of a dear friend bearing the same name." "I'm afraid, George, you'll find me a bad hand at making any such friendship." "They say he is led immensely by his wife, and that she is very clever.

But I mean this chiefly, Alice, that I do hope I shall have all your sympathy in any political career that I may make, and all your assistance also." "My sympathy I think I can promise you.

My assistance, I fear, would be worthless." "By no means worthless, Alice; not if I see you take that place in the world which I hope to see you fill.

Do you think women nowadays have no bearing upon the politics of the times?
Almost as much as men have." In answer to which Alice shook her head; but, nevertheless, she felt in some way pleased and flattered.
George left her without saying a word more about her marriage prospects past or future, and Alice as she went to bed felt glad that this explanation between them had been made..