“Jack Maldon will never be very busy in getting either, I expect,” said Doctor Strong, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.
“Perhaps not,” said Mr. Wickfield; “and you bring me back to the question, with an apology for digressing. No, I have not been able to dispose of Mr. Jack Maldon yet. I believe,” he said this with some hesitation, “I penetrate your motive, and it makes the thing more difficult.”
“My motive,” returned Dr. Strong, “is to make some suitable provision for a cousin, and an old playfellow, of Annie’s.”
“Yes, I know,” said Mr. Wickfield; “at home or abroad.”
“Aye!” replied the Doctor, apparently wondering why he emphasised those words so much. “At home or abroad.”
“Your own expression, you know,” said Mr. Wickfield. “Or abroad.”
“Surely,” the Doctor answered. “Surely. One or other.”
“One or other? Have you no choice?” asked Mr. Wickfield.
“No,” returned the Doctor.
“No?” with astonishment.