It doesn't do to be too honest."
The sigh which left Fenton's lips was almost one of relief, although he
felt that this first attempt to turn the talk into financial channels
had failed.
"No," he replied. "Civilized honesty consists largely in making the
truth convey a false impression, so that one is saved a lie in words
while telling one in effect."
"It is strange how we cling to that old idea that as long as the letter
of what we say is true it is no matter if the spirit be false," was Mr.
Hubbard's response. "I thought of it yesterday at the meeting of the
committee on the statue, when we were all sitting there trying to get
the better of each other by telling true falsehoods."
"How does the statue business come on?" Fenton asked.
"Not very fast. I am sure I wish I was out of it. America always was a
trouble, and this time is no exception to the rule."
"I hope," Arthur said, speaking with more seriousness, "that Grant
Herman will be given the commission. He's all and away the best man."
He had secretly a feeling that he was putting an item on the credit
side of his account with the sculptor in urging his fitness for this
work.
"It is hard to do anything with Calvin and Irons. I've always been for
Herman, but I don't mind telling you in confidence that I stand alone
on the committee."
"Isn't there any way of helping things on? Wouldn't a petition from the
artists do some good?"
"It might.
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