a half to one
`` This house is divided against itself , '' she explained , `` into two political camps . I must try to convert you to my Democratic point of view , for just at present I am outnumbered two to one . '' `` Not two to one , '' Cardington objected . `` Say rather that the forces are drawn up in the proportion of one and a half to one and a half . I stand in the ambiguous position of the peacemaker , inclining now this way , now that , and receiving in turn the whacks of each contestant . I have been compelled to accept on faith the reward that Scripture promises to such as myself , for it has not yet materialized to any appreciable extent . '' `` There 's more truth than poetry in that , '' she answered , laughing .