"No."
The answer came from Mrs. Belswin, and had escaped her against her will; but on seeing the surprise her sudden ejaculation had created, she explained herself with calm grace.
"Of course I mean that Sir Rupert would surely not think of marrying when he has this dear child to comfort him."
"I don't think papa will ever marry again," said Kaituna, in a low tone. "I wonder at your saying such a thing. He was too fond of my mother to forget her easily."
Mrs. Belswin turned away her head and sneered, for she was too well acquainted with Rupert Pethram's selfish heart to believe that he regretted her in the least. Seeing, however, that the subject was a painful one to Kaituna, and by no means relishing it herself, she hastened to turn the conversation by saying the first thing that came into her head.
"By the way, do you know I have an admirer here?"
"Not the vicar?" cried Tommy, clapping her hands.
"No; I'm not antique enough."
"Then Mr. Gelthrip?"
"Ah, he's too devoted to his sick sister. No! My admirer is that handsome Mr. Belk."