"
William spoke earnestly, and his words came so evidently from his heart
that Esther was touched against her will.
"No, I ain't married yet," she replied.
"I'm glad of that."
"I don't see what odds it can make to you whether I'm married or not. If I
ain't married, you are."
William and Esther walked on in silence, listening to the day as it hushed
in quiet suburban murmurs. The sky was almost colourless--a faded grey,
that passed into an insignificant blue; and upon this almost neutral tint
the red suburb appeared in rigid outline, like a carving. At intervals the
wind raised a cloud of dust in the roadway. Stopping before a piece of
waste ground, William said--
"Let's go in there; we'll be able to talk easier." Esther raised no
objection. They went in and looked for a place where they could sit down.
"This is just like old times," said William, moving a little closer.
"If you are going to begin any of that nonsense I'll get up and go. I only
came out with you because you said you had something particular to say
about the child."
"Well, it is only natural that I should like to see my son."
"How do you know it's a son?"
"I thought you said so. I should like it to be a boy--is it?"
"Yes, it is a boy, and a lovely boy too; very different to his father.
I've always told him that his father is dead.
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