‘Yes; every one knows what he is. I declare it went against me to take his offer for the living; but it could not be helped. Money must be had; but there! least said, soonest mended.’
‘We must mend it,’ said Guy, so decidedly, that Markham looked at him with surprise.
‘I don’t see what’s to be done till Halroyd dies; and then you may give the living to whom you please. He lives so hard he can’t last long, that is one comfort.’
Guy sighed and pondered; and presently Markham resumed the conversation.
‘And what has brought you home at a moment’s notice? You might as well have written two or three days before, at least.’
‘I was waiting in hopes of going to Hollywell,’ said Guy sorrowfully.
‘Well, and what is the matter? You have not been quarrelling with your guardian, I hope and trust! Going the old way, after all!’ exclaimed Markham, not in his usual gruff, grumbling note, but with real anxiety, and almost mournfulness.
‘He took up some unjust suspicion of me. I could not bear it patiently, and said something that has offended him.’
‘Oh, Sir Guy! hot and fiery as ever. I always told you that hasty temper would be the ruin of you.’
‘Too true!’ said Guy, so dejectedly, that the old man instantly grew kinder, and was displeased with Mr. Edmonstone.