Chapter Seven.
Uncle Paul Utters Warnings.
“You see, you are quite a stranger,” said the old gentleman, in a kind of gruff apology; “and I’m obliged to look after that poor woman’s interests. Now, then,” he continued, leading the way into the garden, “light up and come into the look-out, boy; I want to talk to you.”
Geoffrey followed him, and as soon as they were seated they smoked and stared at each other in silence for a time, the young man rather enjoying his elder’s keen scrutiny.
“Pleasant woman, my sister-in-law,” said Mr Paul, at last.
“Yes; she seems homely and nice. Takes pride in her house.”
“Humph! Yes.”
“Widow, of course?”
“Yes: didn’t you see she was?”
“Yes.”