Worn
out, I suppose, worn out! In fact," he went on, looking at her sharply,
"it is for you to consider whether you care to take the risks of coming
into this family, for whatever the doctors may or may not say, I think
it my duty to tell you straight out that in my opinion there is some
risk."
"If so, I do not fear it, Mr. Arnott, and I hope you will not put any
such idea into Anthony's head. If you do he might refuse to marry me,
and that would break my heart."
"No, I dare say you do not fear it, but there are other--well, things
must take their course. If we were always thinking of the future no one
would dare to stir."
Then he told her that when first he heard of their mutual attachment he
had been much disturbed, as he did not see how they were to marry.
"But poor George's death has changed all that," he said, "since now
Anthony will get the estate, which is practically the only property we
have, and it ought always to produce enough to keep you going and to
maintain the place in a modest way."
Lastly he presented her with a valuable set of diamonds that had
belonged to his mother, saying he might not be alive to do so when the
time of her marriage came, and dismissed her with his blessing.
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