“I suggested to John Grier the day that Fabian sold his share that you might take his place; and I still think it a good thing, though, of course, I like your painting. But I felt sorry for your father with none of his own family to help him; and I thought you might stay with him for your family’s sake.”
“You thought I’d be a martyr for love of John Grier—and cold cash, did you? That isn’t the way the blood runs in my veins. I think John Grier might get out of the business now, if he’s tired, and sell it and let some one else run it. John Grier is not in want. If he were, I’d give up everything to help him, and I’d not think I was a martyr. But I’ve a right to make my own career. It’s making the career one likes which gets one in the marrow. I’d take my chances of success as he did. He has enough to live on, he’s had success; let him get down and out, if he’s tired.”
The girl held herself firmly. “Remember John Grier has made a great name for himself—as great in his way as Andrew Carnegie or Pierpont Morgan—and he’s got pride in his name. He wants his son to carry it on, and in a way he’s right.”
“That’s good argument,” said Carnac, “but if his name isn’t strong enough to carry itself, his son can’t carry it for him. That’s the way of life. How many sons have ever added to their father’s fame? The instances are very few. In the modern world, I can only think of the Pitts in England. There’s no one else.”
The girl now smiled again. The best part in her was stirred. She saw. Her mind changed. After a moment she said: “I think you’re altogether right about it. Carnac, you have your own career to make, so make it as it best suits yourself. I’m sorry I spoke to your father as I did. I pitied him, and I thought you’d find scope for your talents in the business. It’s a big game, but I see now it isn’t yours, Carnac.”
He nodded, smiling. “That’s it; that’s it, I hate the whole thing.”
She shook hands. As his hand enclosed her long slim fingers, he felt he wished never to let them go, they were so thrilling; but he did, for the thought of Luzanne came to his mind.
“Good-bye, Junia, and don’t forget that John Grier’s firm is the foe of the Belloc business,” he said satirically.
She laughed, and went down the hill quickly, and as she went Carnac thought he had never seen so graceful a figure.
“What an evil Fate sent Luzanne my way!” he said.