“You!” said the sick man, mocking, with some contempt. Hadrian turned and met his eyes. The two men had an inexplicable understanding.
“If you wasn’t against it,” said Hadrian.
“Nay,” said the father, turning aside, “I don’t think I’m against it. I’ve never thought of it. But—But Emmie’s the youngest.”
He had flushed, and looked suddenly more alive. Secretly he loved the boy.
“You might ask her,” said Hadrian.
The elder man considered.
“Hadn’t you better ask her yourself?” he said.
“She’d take more notice of you,” said Hadrian.
They were both silent. Then Emmie came in.
For two days Mr. Rockley was excited and thoughtful. Hadrian went about quietly, secretly, unquestioning. At last the father and daughter were alone together. It was very early morning, the father had been in much pain. As the pain abated, he lay still, thinking.