"No, I'm not in want of money: but I'm in want of a daughter-in-law, of grandchildren to sit upon my knee—" He laughed again, as if he were a little ashamed of the touch of sentiment. "Seriously, Staff, is there any reason for waiting? I know that the engagement is a short one; but, well why should you and Maude not be happy? I can make arrangements," he went on, eagerly. "There is Brae Wood. I'll make that over to you—"
Brae Wood again! Stafford's face grew set and impassive.
—"Or there is that place I bought in Warwickshire. But, there, perhaps you and Maude would like to find a place for yourselves. Very natural! Well, there's no difficulty! Come, Staff! Why delay! 'Gather ye rose-buds while ye may,' you know! Why shouldn't the marriage take place directly the House rises and we leave London?"
Stafford turned away so that his father might not see the sudden pallor of his face.
"I'll—I'll speak to Maude, sir," he said, trying to make his tone cheerful, if not enthusiastic.
Sir Stephen laid his hand upon Stafford's broad shoulder.
"Thank you, my boy!" he said. "You are always good to me! Always! God bless you, Staff!"
His voice was husky, there was a moisture in his eyes which almost made Stafford's grow dim; then, with a swift return to his usual alert and sanguine manner, Sir Stephen withdrew his hands and swung round.
"I must be off: Maude likes me to be in the room when the people come: and, by George! Staff, I find myself doing what she likes all the time!"
His laugh rang out as he hurried with his brisk step from the room.