Yet that was the truth; and perhaps it was a good defense.

And Claudia was resentful because she could not defend herself by using it, and her resentment settled upon the ultimate cause of her perplexities.
When Eugene got back to Territon Park he was received by the brothers with unaffected interest.

They were passing the morning in an exhaustive medical inspection of the dogs, but they left even this engrossing occupation, and sauntered out to meet him.
"Well, what luck ?" asked Rickmansworth.
"The debate is adjourned," answered Eugene.
"Did Clau make herself agreeable ?" "Well, no; in fact she made herself as disagreeable as she knew how." "Raised Cain, did she ?" inquired Bob sympathetically.
"Something of the sort; but I think it's all right." "You play up, old man," said Bob.
"Well, but what the devil are we to do with this parson ?" Lord Rickmansworth demanded.

"He'll be here after lunch, you know.

You are an ass, Eugene, to bring him down!" "I'm not quite sure, you know, that he won't persuade her." "Why didn't you settle it this morning ?" "My dear fellow, she was impossible this morning." "Oh, bosh!" said his lordship.