"I presume so; but I do not like to speak of that," gravely replied Mr. Lyle.
"No, of course you do not. And I really beg your pardon. I should not have spoken myself, only in my girl's interests. You see, I felt a little curious and anxious to know where her future life would be likely to be passed, and I thought it would be a much happier life if passed here, near her dear friend Miss Cavendish, that's all," explained Victor.
"You seem to consider that quite a settled matter," replied Mr. Lyle, a little incoherently, and blushing like a maiden.
"Yes, of course I consider it all quite settled! You, in your earnestness, can not conceal your liking for my girl, and she, in her innocent frankness, does not even try to conceal hers from you. And I heartily approve the match and am ready to dower the bride," said Victor.
"But I have not ventured to speak to her yet," stammered Mr. Lyle.
"Then you may do so just as soon as you please," answered Victor.
"And now about Alden," said Mr. Lyle, by way of changing the conversation.
"Yes, now about Alden. He does not suspect that I am his banker, I hope?"
"No, indeed! I paid him over the munificent sum you intrusted to me for him. He feels—well, I may say painfully grateful, and is confident that he must some time repay you, with interest and compound interest."
"Yes, my boy will certainly repay me, but not in the way he thinks," observed Victor, gravely.