"Of course you can count upon it," she said.
He nodded, pulling restlessly at his beard with his free hand. "To what extent, I wonder? Are you keen?"
"Of course I am keen," she said, almost with indignation. He stood silent a moment, his hand still upon her shoulder. Then, "Mrs. Bolton," he said, "do you know your young brother has got a curious notion into his head that you don't want him to be made sound?"
"Ah, but that is a mistake!" she said quickly.
"Is it a mistake?" said Capper. "No, don't answer! Why should you? But it's curious that I should have sensed the same myself the moment I saw you. However, if you tell me it is not so, I shall take your word for it. But at the same time I think I begin to see your point of view. Without the care of him you would feel lost for a bit. Life might be rather difficult. Isn't that so?"
She laughed somewhat tremulously. "I think I have always found life difficult. But lately--just lately--" She paused in uncertainty.
"Ah!" said Capper. "Maybe you're up against it. But you've got solid ground to stand on. You may take my word for that, because I happen to know."
He spoke with a kindness that went straight to her heart. Almost involuntarily she put her hand into his, feeling the long, active fingers close upon it with a sense of security that was infinitely comforting.
"Did Jake ever tell you the foundation of our friendship?" he asked her suddenly.
She shook her head.