Clive was silent again for a few moments, and then, after glancing at the window, he said in a low voice—
“Major Gurdon, the time has come for me to know whether I am to visit here again.”
“Come here again? I do not quite understand you, sir. Pray speak out.”
“I will, sir,” said Clive earnestly. “I love your child.”
“We all do, sir,” said the Major coldly. “Who could help it?”
“Yes, who could help it?” said Clive, in a tone of voice which told how deeply he was moved. “And now, as an honourable man, I ask you, sir, whether I am still to visit here, or my visits are to cease?”
“Have you told Dinah what you have told me?”
“Not a word, sir.”
“That’s right!”
“How could I without your leave?”