'And when we have a share in public affairs there'll be less likelihood of war. Wasn't it a woman, the Baroness von Suttner, whose book about peace was the corner-stone of the Peace Congress? Wasn't it that book that converted the millionaire maker of armaments of war? Wasn't it the Baroness von Suttner's book that made Nobel offer those great international prizes for the Arts of Peace? I'm not saying women can't fight. But we women know all war is evil, and we're for peace. Our part--we're proud to remember it--our part has been to go about after you men in war time and _pick up the pieces_!'
A great shout went up as the truth of that rolled in upon the people.
'Yes; seems funny, doesn't it? You men blow people to bits, and then we come along and put them together again. If you know anything about military nursing, you know a good deal of our work has been done in the face of danger; _but it's always been done_.'
'Well, what of it?' said a voice. 'Women must do something for their keep.'
'You complain that more and more we're taking away from you men the work that's always been yours. You can't any longer keep woman out of the industries. The only question is, on what terms shall she continue to be in? As long as she's in on bad terms, she's not only hurting herself, she's hurting you. But if you're feeling discouraged about our competing with you, we're willing to leave you your trade in war. Let the men take life! We _give_ life!' Her voice was once more moved and proud. 'No one will pretend ours isn't one of the dangerous trades either. I won't say any more to you now, because we've got others to speak to you, and a new woman helper that I want you to hear.'
With an accompaniment of clapping she retired to hold a hurried consultation with the chairman.
Jean turned to see how Geoffrey had taken it. 'Well?'
'Nothing so _very_ reprehensible in what she said, was there?'
'It makes one rather miserable all the same.'
He pressed his guardian arm the closer. 'You mustn't take it as much to heart as all that.'
'I can't help it. I can't indeed, Geoffrey. I shall _never_ be able to make a speech like that.'
He stared, considerably taken aback. 'I hope not indeed.'
'Why? I thought you said you wanted me to----'