He hesitated. “I might wish to satisfy you, mother, and other good folks, but not to put myself in bondage to what has led blindfold to half the dastardly and cruel acts on this earth, beautiful dream though it be.”
“Ah, my boy, it is my shame and grief that it is not a beautiful reality to you.”
“You were too wise to bore us. You have only fancied that since you fell in with the Evelyns.”
“Ah, if I had only bred you up in the same spirit as the Evelyns!”
“It would not have answered. We are of different stuff. And after all, Janet and I are your only black sheep. Jock has his convictions in a strong, practical working order, as real to him as ever his drill and order-book were. Good old fellow, he strikes me a good deal more than all Ogilvie’s discussions.”
“Mr. Ogilvie has talked to you?”
“He has done his part both as cleric and your devoted servant, mother, and, I confess, made the best of his case, as an able man heartily convinced can do. Good night, mother.”
“One moment, Bobus, my dear; I want one promise from you, to your old Mother Carey. Call it a superstition and a charm if you will, but promise. Take this Greek Testament, keep it with you, and read a few verses every night. Promise me.”
“Dear mother, I am ready to promise. I have read those poems and letters several times in the original.”
“But you will do this for me, beginning again when you have finished? Promise.”