unwelcome truth was that her husband had no great interests in life in which she could find permanent pleasure. Companionship and love there was and, she told herself, always would be; but in some respects their lives must flow in two streams. Last night, for the second time, she had irritated him; he had spoken almost harshly to her, and she knew she must brood or work today. And so she hunted work, eagerly.
She felt the atmosphere the moment she entered. There were carelessly gowned women and men smart and shabby, but none of them were thinking of clothes nor even of one another. They had great deeds in mind; they were scanning the earth; they were toiling for men. The same grim excitement that sends smaller souls hunting for birds and rabbits and lions, had sent them hunting the enemies of mankind: they were bent to the chase, scenting the game, knowing the infinite meaning of their hunt and the glory of victory. Mary Cresswell had listened but a half hour before her world seemed so small and sordid and narrow, so trivial, that a sense of shame spread over her. These people were not only earnest, but expert. They acknowledged the need of Mr. ¬ÝTodd‚Äôs educational bill.
“But the Republicans are going to sidetrack it; I have that on the best authority,” said one.
“True; but can’t we force them to it?”
“Only by political power, and they’ve just won a campaign.”
“They won it by Negro votes, and the Negro who secured the votes is eager for this bill; he’s a fine, honest fellow.”
“Very well; work with him; and when we can be of real service let us know. Meantime, this Child Labor bill is different. It’s bound to pass. Both parties are back of it, and public opinion is aroused. Now our work is to force amendments enough to make the bill effective.”