When I was home again, I found that they were beginning to treat me as a man; and for three months or more I spent my time in sport. By which I do not mean killing things, that was a pursuit I never really cared for.
Towards the end of this time Carruthers paid me a visit from Sandhurst, into which he had passed a year or so before I left school; after his visit I began to wonder what I should do with my life. His stories of the great military college had fired me with a desire for the army.
It was after dinner some three nights following his departure that I broached the subject of my future.
"I wish to know what vocation you think I am suited for?"
I spoke collectively. My mother gave a little start, looked quickly at my stepfather, gave a little sigh, and remained silent.
My stepfather smiled a trifle grimly, he too did not speak. Mr. Neville, however, answered me.
"What do you yourself feel inclined for?" he asked.
"I hardly know. You see, I have never thought much about it until lately; but it seems to me, that now I have left school, I ought to do something to be independent."
"There is no need of that, Victor," said my stepfather. "Would you not be content to stay here, and wait for a little?"
"If I did, it would prevent my going to Sandhurst."