CHAPTER III
THE REASON WHY
Let us, then, be what we are, and speak what we think, and
in all things
Keep ourselves loyal to truth.'—Longfellow.
'General Forsyth, may I speak to you for a few minutes?'
It was after breakfast the next morning that I made this request. I was determined to have the matter settled as soon as possible.
'Certainly,' my guardian said, looking at me in some surprise. 'Come into the library, for we shall be undisturbed there.'
He led the way, politely handed me a chair, and then stood leaning his back against the mantel-piece and stroking his moustache, giving me at the same time a keen glance from under his shaggy eyebrows.
'Well,' he said, 'what is it? Do you want any money?'
'No,' I said a little nervously; 'it is quite another matter;' then gathering courage, I looked him straight in the face and said, 'General Forsyth, I think you expect me to go to those theatricals at the Walkers' next week. I cannot do it.'