Friar John's
University studies had given him such a start that he had to work
less hard than his cousin, and could afford himself the week for
which he was invited; but Jock declared that he could not even lose
the thirty-six hours that Armine was to take for the journey to
Fordham and back. Every one declared this nonsense, and even Mrs.
Lucas could not bear that he should remain, as she thought, on her
account; but his mother did not join in the public outcry, and
therefore was admitted to fuller insight, as he was walking back with
her, after listening to the old lady's persuasions.
"I think she would really be better pleased to spare you for that one
day," said Caroline.
"May be, good old soul," said Jock; "but as you know, mother, that's
not all."
"I guessed not. It may be wiser."
"Well! There's no use in stirring it all up again, after having
settled down after a fashion," said Jock. "I see clearer than ever
how hopeless it is to have anything fit to offer a girl in her
position for the next ten years, and I must not get myself betrayed
into drawing her in to wait for me. I am such an impulsive fool, I
don't know what I might be saying to her, and it would not be a right
return for all they have been to me."
"You will have to meet her in town?"
"Perhaps; but not as if I were in the house and at the wedding.
Pages:
747
748
749
750
751
752
753
754
755
756
757
758
759
760
761
762
763
764
765
766
767
768
769
770
771