"Well, then, you have it without asking," retorted Ferdy, airily; "and the other condition?"
"You must marry Prudence Clarke in two months--that will be a sufficiently long time after Uncle Henry's death, and I want you to be settled as soon as possible."
Ferdy looked at her very straightly, and then dropped his eyes on the carpet. "I'll marry Prudence, if she'll marry me."
"She's engaged to you; she loves you."
"As I said before, her father--"
"I'll interview Mr. Clarke," interrupted Miss Baird, quickly. "He was delighted when your engagement was announced, and I do not see why he should change his mind. If he refuses to permit the marriage--"
"Yes!" said Ferdy, hastily, "if he refuses."
"You must agree to live with me in London for two years--that is until you get your money."
"I don't know what Jerce will say."
"Say? What should he say? You are not bound to him in any way."