"When shall we have the pleasure of your continued presence at home?" asked the father.
"To-night," replied Quincy, with a smile, "I shall be with you at dinner, stay all night, and take breakfast with you."
"I trust your long visit will not oblige you to neglect other more important matters," said the father.
"Oh, no!" answered Quincy. "I have looked out for that."
"And when do you think your health will allow you to resume your position in the office?" inquired the Hon. Nathaniel.
"That is very uncertain," replied Quincy.
"If you do not intend to come back at all," continued the father, "that would simplify matters. I could then make room for a Harvard graduate to study with us."
Quincy reflected. He had been taught by his father not to give a positive answer to any question on the spur of the moment, if more time could be taken, as well as not, for consideration. So, after a few moments of thought, Quincy said, "I will write you in the course of ten days or a fortnight, and give you a positive answer."
"That will be entirely satisfactory," answered his father. "As you are going out, will you kindly tell Mr. Crowninshield that I wish to consult with him?"
Quincy knew that the interview had expired by limitation. He went home, but found that his mother and sisters were out riding.