‘And yet—don’t be angry with me, my child—I think you are something more than friends?’
She made no answer.
‘And I can’t help thinking, Janey—I think about you very often indeed—that Mr. Kirkwood has rather exaggerated views about the necessity of—of altering things between you.’
Quite recently Joseph had become aware of the understanding between Michael and Kirkwood. The old man still hesitated to break the news to Jane, saying to himself that it was better for Sidney to prepare her by the change in his behaviour.
‘Of altering things?’ Jane repeated, under her breath.
‘It seems to me wrong—wrong to both of you,’ Joseph pursued, in a pathetic voice. ‘I can’t help noticing my child’s looks. I know she isn’t what she used to be, poor little girl! And I know Kirkwood isn’t what he used to be. It’s very hard, and I feel for you—for both of you.’
Jane sat motionless, not daring to lift her eyes, scarcely daring to breathe.
‘Janey.’
‘Yes, father.’
‘I wonder whether I’m doing wrong to your grandfather in speaking to you confidentially like this? I can’t believe he notices things as I do; he’d never wish you to be unhappy.’