“Nothing can alter that?” “Nothing, Samuel Appleby.” “That remains to be seen. Have I your permission to talk to Maida, alone?” “Certainly. Why not? If you can persuade her to marry Jeff, I’ll be only too glad. If you find her determined to stand by her father, then the case remains as it is at present.” And so, as Maida returned from her walk with Keefe, she was asked to go for another stroll with Samuel Appleby. She assented, though with no show of pleasure at the prospect. But as they started off, she said: “I’m glad to have a talk with you, Mr. Appleby. I want to appeal to your better nature.” “Good! That’s just what I want—to appeal to yours. Suppose you word your appeal first.” “Mine is simple to understand. It is only that having had your way and having spoiled my father’s life for fifteen years, I ask you, in the name of humanity and justice, to arrange matters so that his latter years of life shall be free from the curse you put upon him.” “I didn’t put it upon him—he brought it on himself.” “He never committed that crime—and you know it!” “What do you mean by that?” Appleby gave her a startled glance. Had Maida seen this glance, she might have been enlightened. But her eyes were cast down, and she went on: “I don’t know it surely, but I am positive in my own heart father never did it. However, that’s past history. All I ask now is his full pardon—which, I know, you can bring about if you want to.” “And I will, willingly and gladly, if your father will grant my request.” “To put your son in as governor with the same political views that prevented my father from voting for you! You know he can’t do that!” “And yet you expect me to favor him!” “But don’t you see the difference? Your pardon will mean everything to father——” “And to you!” “Yes, but that’s a secondary consideration. I’d ask this for father just the same, if it meant disaster for me!” “I believe you would!” and Appleby gazed admiringly at the sweet, forceful face, and the earnest eyes. “Of course I should! As I say, it means life’s happiness to him.” “And his consent means just as much to me.” “No, it doesn’t. That’s just it. Even though father doesn’t definitely help you in your son’s election, he will do nothing to hinder. And that’s much the same.” “It’s far from being the same. His positive and definite help is a very different matter from his negative lack of interference. It’s the help I want. And I do want it! Do you suppose I’d come here and urge it—beg for it—if I didn’t think it absolutely necessary?” “No; I suppose not. But I know he never will grant it, so you may as well give up hope.” “You know that, do you, Maida?” Appleby’s voice was almost wistful. “I most certainly do,” and the girl nodded her head positively. “Then listen to me. I have one argument yet unused. I’m going to use it now. And with you.” Maida looked up in alarm. Appleby’s face was stern, his tone betokened a final, even desperate decision.