Rather I should say plots have merged into leading ideas; and I have none." "Oh, distinctly!" observed Mr.Ticke finely.

"A plot is as vulgar at this end of the century as a--as a dress improver, to take a feminine simile." Rattray looked seriously uncomprehending, and slowly scratched the back of his hand.

"Couldn't you find a leading idea in some of the modern movements," he asked -- "in the higher education of women, for instance, or the suffrage agitation ?" "Or University Extension, or Bimetallism, or Eight Hours' Labor, or Disestablishment!" Elfrida laughed.

"No, Mr.
Rattray, I don't think I could.
"I might do some essays," she suggested.
Rattray, tilting his chair back, with his forefingers in the arm-holes of his waistcoat, pursed his lips "We couldn't get them read," he said.

"It takes a well-established reputation to carry essays.