Shortly after his arrival he broached the subject to Kaituna, while waiting for his horse to be brought round, as it was his intention to ride round the estate with Belk.
"Kaituna," he said, in his frigid voice, "when do you expect this lady to return?"
"In about ten days, papa."
"Do you like her, my child?"
"Oh, papa, I love her."
Sir Rupert raised his eyebrows.
"That is a strong expression, and a mistaken one. My child, never give your love to any one. They will betray you."
"Isn't that rather severe?"
"Not from my experience," answered Pethram, with emphasis. "But there, there! do not look so sad, child. You are young yet, and all geese are swans in your eyes. But about Mrs. Belswin. I am very much annoyed that she should have gone away at this time. It is not courteous to me, nor in keeping with her position as your companion."
"But she had to go about some business, papa," said Kaituna, rather afraid at the frown she saw on her father's face.