human
As I didn't see you downstairs I came up to look for you; Gertrude's with Hilda. Haven't Florence and Leonard arrived yet?
gpt
Train seems to be late, Andrew replied.
human
I suppose I should have gone to meet them, but I felt lazy.
gpt
Was that all?
human
It wasn't my only reason. To tell the truth, I shirked the drive home with Leonard. I'm a poor dissembler and our relations are rather strained. It will be easier to meet him when there are others about.
gpt
They'll be on his side.
human
I expect so; but I'm not afraid of direct opposition. It's beating about a delicate subject and trying to keep on safe ground that bothers me.
gpt
I know; it's embarrassing. You won't be able to broach matters of any importance to-night.
human
No. We'll have one or two outside people here and I want my homecoming to be harmonious. We'll let things stand over till to-morrow.
gpt
Feeling nervous about it?
human
I'll confess that I do. It's the preliminary tussle, and I haven't many backers.
gpt
You needn't be downhearted. I don't know that your people are remarkably broad-minded, but they're straight--I'll say that even for Robert. They'll come round if they think you're right. But don't be apologetic; take a firm tone. Manner goes a long way and, after all, you are the head of Allinson's.
human
The trouble is that I've allowed Leonard to usurp my place and he'll be hard to depose.