“‘Eyes watch us that we cannot see,
Lips warn us that we may not kiss,
They wait for us, and starrily
Lean toward us, from heaven’s lattices.’”
“That’s a varry comforting thought, Richard. Thou sees, as I draw near to t’ other life, I think more about it; and t’ things o’ this life that used to worry me above a bit, hev kind of slipped away from me.”
It seemed to be very true that the things of this life had slipped away from him. Richard expected him every day to speak about Hallam and Elizabeth; but week after week passed, and he did not name the estate. As Christmas drew near he was, however, much excited. Lady Evelyn was expected, and she was to bring with her Antony’s son, who had been called after the squire. He longed to see the child, and at once took him to his heart. And he was a very beautiful boy, bright and bold, and never weary of lisping, “Gran’pa.”
One night, after the nurse had taken him away, the squire, who was alone with Richard, said, “I commit that little lad to thy care, Richard; see he hes his rights, and do thy duty by him.”
“If his father dies I will do all I am permitted to do.”
“For sure; I forgot. What am I saying? There’s Antony yet. He wants Hallam back. What does ta say?”
“I should be glad to see him in his place.”
“I believe thee. Thou wilt stand by Elizabeth?”
“Until death.”
“I believe thee. There’s a deal o’ Hallam in thee, Richard. Do thy duty by t’ old place.”