"You are not well!"
The remark was put aside.
"What, pray, is the meaning of this?" Mr. Stirling demanded. "You know that in coming here, you break conditions—"
"Unreasonable conditions!"
"Allow me to finish, if you please. Conditions, upon which your mother's claim to a lifelong pension rest."
"I cannot help it! There are times when a man must judge for himself,— must put aside other considerations. I have a question to put; and I intend to have an answer."
"No doubt in reference to Doris Winton. I have heard of that folly."
"It is in reference to my love for Doris Winton. My life's happiness depends on marrying her; and one great obstacle stands in the way. Mr. Stirling—who was my father?"
No answer was vouchsafed.
"Is he living now?"