"I see it all more clearly since this bit of Colonial experience,"
she said. "Our work in the world is marked out for us; we have no
choice, unless we turn cowards. Of course we shall be hated by other
countries, more and more. We shall be accused of rapacity, and
arrogance, and everything else that's disagreeable in a large way;
we can't help that. If we enrich ourselves, that is a legitimate
reward for the task we perform. England means liberty and
enlightenment; let England spread to the ends of the earth! We
mustn't be afraid of greatness! We _can't_ stop--still less draw
back. Our politics have become our religion. Our rulers have a
greater responsibility than was ever known in the world's history--
and they will be equal to it!"
The listeners felt that a little clapping of the hands would have
been appropriate; they exchanged a glance, as if consulting each
other as to the permissibility of such applause. But Irene's
eloquent eyes and glowing colour excited more admiration than
criticism; in their hearts they wished joy to the young life which
would go on its way through an ever changing world long after they
and their old-fashioned ideas had passed into silence.
In a laughing moment, Irene told them of the proposal she had
received from Trafford Romaine. This betokened her high spirits, and
perchance indicated a wish to make it understood that her acceptance
of Arnold Jacks was no unconsidered impulse.
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