Evan jumped up and walked the room.
“What am I to do?” he cried. “I will pay everything. I will bind myself to pay every farthing. What more can I possibly do?”
“Make the money,” said Mrs. Mel’s deep voice.
Evan faced her: “My dear mother, you are very unjust and inconsiderate. I have been working and doing my best. I promise—what do the debts amount to?”
“Something like £5000 in all, Van.”
“Very well.” Youth is not alarmed by the sound of big sums. “Very well—I will pay it.”
Evan looked as proud as if he had just clapped down the full amount on the table.
“Out of the History of Portugal, half written, and the prospect of a Government appointment?”
Mrs. Mel raised her eyelids to him.
“In time—in time, mother!”