"Yes, why not?"
"What did he think of it?"
"Well," said her father, slowly, "naturally he did
not quite fall in with my views, for I think he is not just what you could call a disinterested party. I more than half suspect that Mr. Darrell would like to step into Mr. Walcott's place himself, if he were only eligible, but knowing that he is not, he is too much of a gentleman to commit himself in any way."
Mr. Underwood scanned his daughter's face keenly as he spoke, but it was as impassive as his own. To Kate, Darrell's absences of late were now explained; he understood it all. She kissed her father silently.
"You know, Puss, I am looking out for your best interests in all of this," said her father, a little troubled by her silence.
"I know that is your intention, papa," she replied, with gentle gravity, and left the room.