"Oh, I know—people have blamed him for staying so long abroad, if he were not obliged. But Hermione and I have always believed that he had some really good reason. We never can forget what he used to be with us, always so kind and gentle. And that is not usual, father. Young men just leaving college don't generally care much for children of eleven and thirteen."
"Perhaps not, generally. Harvey would do anything for anybody, if it were not too much trouble."
Marjory made no answer, and her pale brow was knitted sorrowfully. Mr. Fitzalan moved away to the table, where he began writing letters, and presently Marjory followed him.
"Up again! Not rested yet, I think," he said, hardly pausing in his rapid penmanship.
"I don't know. I must go out."
"What for?"
"Hermione asked me to leave these roses, with her love, at Mrs. Pennant's."
"I saw Pennant just now on his rounds. Why could not Hermione leave the flowers herself, or send a servant?"
"I don't know. She asked me."
"And you never say 'No' to Hermione?"