CHAPTER 17
All sorts of absurd assumptions pass current as fixed and non-
debatable standards. We might be free, and we tie ourselves to the
slavery of rutted convention. Afraid of ideas, we come to no
definite philosophy of life that is the result of clear and
pellucid thinking.
We must get rid of our bonds, but only in order to take on new
ones. For our convictions will shackle us. The difference is that
then we shall be servants of Truth and not of dead Tradition.
--From the Note Book of a Dreamer.
THE CHAPERONE EXPLAINS THAT THE REBEL IS IMPOSSIBLE AND THE
CHAPERONED BEGS LEAVE TO DIFFER
Part 1
"And why mustn't I?" Alice demanded vigorously.
Her cousin regarded her with indolent amusement. "My dear, you are
positively the most energetic person I know. It is refreshing to
see with what interest you enter into a discussion."
Miss Frome, very erect and ready for argument, watched her
steadily from the piano stool of their joint sitting room. "Well?"
"I didn't say you mustn't, my dear. I know better than to deal in
imperatives with Miss Alice. What I did was mildly to suggest that
you are going rather far. It's all very well to be civil, but--"
Mrs.
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