'That was just one of the things I value this inheritance for, Robin. There's no fear but that you would find plenty to do.'
'You have three to do it,' she said; 'and the more Angela has on her hands the better she will get on. I have been thinking it over ever since you wrote, Felix, and I cannot see that your having an estate makes it right in me to live dependent when I can maintain myself. It would not if I were your brother.'
'You are not going in for women's rights, Bob?' he said, smiling.
'Not out-and-out. But listen. What you have for us is just the run of the house, isn't it?'
'Well, yes,' he hesitated. 'It will take some time and prudence to make a provision for you, you horribly wise bird!'
'Then would it not be foolish to come and eat up your provision at home when I can do something towards making one myself; and I am really very happy?' and there was colour enough in her cheek slightly to startle her brother.
'Oh, if you are too happy here to come away—'
'Don't say that! she cried. 'I like it, for they are all kind and bright; and I never had such a friend as Lady Grace—and I feel as if I were doing a duty; but—oh no!—'
'Don't be so horribly discomfited, my dear. Only when young ladies are so happy away from home, and want to make a provision—My dear little sister, I beg your pardon—'
'Stay, Felix; I must tell you now, that you may not fancy anything so dreadful as that it is any one here.'