"She says,"he returned with a rather grim smile,"Jewel avers that Iam kindness itself inside.Let us admit it for convenience now,and see if you can't speak freely.""Thank you.You know what I am ashamed of:staying here so long;imposing upon you;taking everything for granted when we have no right.I want to understand our affairs;to know if we have anything,and what it is;to have you help me,you;to have you tell me how we can live independently,and help me to make mother agree to it.Oh,if you would--if you couldbe my friend,grandfather.I need you so!"Mr.Evringham received this impetuous outburst without change of countenance."How about Ballard?"he said."I thought he was going to settle all this."There was silence in the brougham.The flash of hurt in the girl's eyes was quenched by quick tears.Her companion reddened under the look of surprise she bent upon him,her lovely lips unsteady.
"No offense,"he added hastily."Ballard's sentiments are evident enough,and he is a fine fellow."Eloise controlled herself."Will you take the trouble to explain our affairs to me?"she asked.