"There are less humiliating ways of making a living--for you," said
Diana steadily.
He looked first at Silvette, then at her, deliberately, and his face
altered.
"I want to look out for you," he said, "and that's the plain truth."
"That," observed Silvette, "is the nicest thing he's said yet, Diane."
She walked up to him and stood serenely inspecting him.
"_I_ vote for you. Diane, let's admit him. We're a poverty-stricken
family, and we ought to combine. Besides, I like him to feel the way he
does about us--not that it's necessary, of course--but it's--pleasant."
"I haven't any cash," said Edgerton, "but I've this apartment, which
nobody can take away even if I starve; and I've some very fine
clothes.... Won't you vote for me, Diana?" he added so naturally that
neither seemed to notice his use of her first name.
Silvette waited a moment, watching her sister; then she said briskly:
"Let's dress. We'll inspect your beautiful British clothing, cousin,
and you shall see our prettiest afternoon gowns. Then we can tell
better how such a combination would look. Shall we?"