'Many thanks to Sir Miles,' said Louis, laughing. 'My weak mind would never have devised such consolation.'
'Perhaps the exclusive devotion to study which attains higher honours may not be the beat introduction to practical life.'
'It is doing the immediate work with the whole might.'
'You do work with all your might.'
'Ay! but too many irons in the fire, and none of them red-hot through, have been my bane.'
'You do not set out in life without experience; I am glad your education is finished, Louis!' said his father, turning to contemplate him, as if the sight filled up some void.
'Are you?' said Louis, wearily. 'I don't think I am. It becomes my duty—or yours, which is a relief—to find out the next stage.'
'Have you no wishes?'
'Not at the present speaking, thank you. If I went out and talked to any one, I might have too many.'
'No views for your future life?'