"I see; I am to become 'The' without a fight."
"Precisely," said Traquair.
"Well, discretionary powers as to informing me of this were given you, as I understand, Mr. Traquair?"
"They were," said Traquair.
"Well," said McTavish again, "there's no use crying over spilt milk. But is your conscience up to a heavy load?"
"'Tis a meeserable vehicle at best," protested Traquair.
"You must pretend," said McTavish, "that you have not yet told me."
"Ah!" Traquair exclaimed. "You wish to think it over."
"I do," said McTavish.
Both were silent for some moments. Then Traquair said rather solemnly: "You are young, Mr. McTavish, but I have hopes that your thinking will be of a wise and courageous nature."