“Yes,” said Alvar, “I wish it to be so.”
Mr Lester then entered into an explanation of the means which he was prepared to place at Alvar’s disposal, talked of house rent and of Virginia’s fortune, and said a few words on the amount of his own means, and what he meant to do for the younger ones. Nettie was provided for by her mother’s fortune, a smaller proportion of which would be inherited by the sons also at their father’s death. “But,” as Mr Lester concluded, “of course they all know that in the main they must look to their own exertions.”
“Of course,” said Cheriton.
Alvar looked very much surprised.
“The boys,” he said, “yes; but I thought, my father, you would wish that Cheriton should be rich.”
“Alvar,” said Mr Lester, rising and speaking with real dignity, “you misunderstand me. In such matters I can make no distinctions between my sons. Cheriton and his brothers stand exactly on the same footing. As for you, you will have to represent the old name, and keep the old place on its proper level. I shall not stint you of the means of doing so with ease and dignity.”
Alvar cast down his eyes, and a curious look as of a sort of oppression passed over his face.
“That will be an obligation to me,” he said, gravely. “You are most—honourable to me, my father.”
“Not at all,” said Mr Lester. “I should not think of acting otherwise. Well—now you had better be off to Elderthwaite and settle all your affairs.”
Alvar left the room, and Mr Lester burst out,—