”

Still David stood with bowed head.

“It is as if you were predestined, my lord, to step in at a critical time of your country’s need — with brains, education, conscience, and wealth — with every obstacle swept away.”

Still before him stood Cassandra, white and silent; he could see only her.

“Every obstacle swept away,” repeated the lawyer.

“And Cassandra, God help her and me.” David slowly turned, lifted a glass of wine from the table, and drank it. “Well, so be it, so be it,” he said aloud. “We’ll join mother and Laura.” At the door he paused, “You spoke of education — the learning of a physician is but little in the line of statesmanship. How soon will I be expected to take my seat?”