It almost seemed as though he regarded it so himself, for when Lily murmured an inarticulate and meaningless reply he said:
"You've chosen a good man, and one to whom I am proud to give you."
He kissed and blessed her very kindly, rather as though it were part of some grave ritual.
"I approve your choice on behalf of your mother, as well as myself. If only she were here, Lily! Poor child, it's hard on you."
Philip suddenly began to fidget with whatever lay nearest to hand.
"You've had a little talk with Cousin Ethel?" he said meaningly.
Lily had had innumerable talks with Cousin Ethel, but a terrifying certainty suddenly invaded her that her father was alluding to none of them.
She said "Yes" nevertheless, and Philip said hastily: "That's right, that's right," and did not look at her.
Lily hoped fervently that there the mysterious question would be allowed to rest.
When Mrs. Hardinge sought her that evening, however, she knew that her hopes were futile.