'This sum of two hundred and fifty pounds, Miss Nancarrow, is not—you follow me?—is not to be given to you at once—you grasp that?—I am trustee for the money; that means—attend, please—it lies in my hands until the time and the occasion comes for—mind—for giving it to you. You understand so far?'
'I shouldn't mind a harder word now and then, sir, if it makes it easier for you.'
Mr. Barlow examined her, but Totty's face was very placid. She cast down her eyes, and watched her toes tapping together.
'Well, well; I think you follow me. Now the conditions are these. The money is payable to you—payable, you see—on your marriage.'
'Oh!'
'I beg you not to interrupt me. Is payable to you on your marriage, and then—now pray attend—not unless you obtain the approval of myself and of Mr. Higgins—unless you obtain our approval of the man you propose to marry.'
'Oh!'
'You have understood, I hope?'
'I shall marry who I like, sir,' observed Totty, quietly.
Mr. Barlow looked at her with surprise.