''
``But they won't learn. They won't be led right. They are as
ungrateful as they are foolish. If they weren't, men like me
trying to make a decent career wouldn't have to compromise with
the Kellys and the Houses and their masters. What are Kelly and
House but leaders of your class? And they lead ten to Victor
Dorn's one. Why, any day Dorn's followers may turn on him--and
you know it.''
``And what of that?'' cried Selma. ``He's not working to be
their leader, but to do what he thinks is right, regardless of
consequences. Why is he a happy man, as happiness goes? Why has
he gone on his way steadily all these years, never minding
setbacks and failures and defeats and dangers? I needn't tell
you why.''
``No,'' said Hull, powerfully moved by her earnestness. ``I
understand.''
``The finest sentence that ever fell from human lips,'' Selma
went on, ``was `Father, forgive them; they know not what they
do.' Forgive them--forgive us all-- for when we go astray it is
because we are in the dark. And I want you to come with us, Mr.
Hull, and help to make it a little less dark. At least, you will
then be looking toward the light--and every one turned in that
direction counts.''
After a long pause, Hull said:
``Miss Gordon, may I ask you a very personal question?''
``Yes,'' said she.
``Are you in love with Victor Dorn?''
Selma laughed merrily. ``Jane Hastings had that same
curiosity,'' said she.
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