'Your brother will soon be the nearest thing in the world to you. Oh, my boy,' said old Ferrier, suddenly raising himself on his elbow, and clasping Dick's strong right hand in both his, 'for God's sake, don't quarrel with him! If you ever cared for me, keep friends with him. If you and he weren't friends, I couldn't lie easy in my grave. And it's been a long life—I should like to lie easy at last!'
'I don't quarrel with him, father.'
'Well, lad—well, I've thought you did; perhaps I'm wrong. Anyway, don't quarrel—if it's only for your old dad's sake. I've loved you both so dearly.'
'I will try to do everything you wish.'
'I know you will, Dick. You always have done that. Was that Roland just came in? If it is, send him to me.'
The young man stood silently for a few moments. Then he bent down over his father and kissed his forehead twice. When he left the room he met a servant on the landing.
'Is Mr Roland at home yet?'
'Yes, sir; he's just come in.'
'Tell him Mr Ferrier wishes to see him at once.'