When he got back to the hall Jasper gave him a smile.
“Then you are resigned, Kit? Since you like romantic exploits, I wondered whether you might not copy young Lochinvar’s.”
“The romantic days are gone, sir, and the bride was not willing,” Kit replied, and turned to Mrs. Carson. “I shall not be long in England, and for me to stay at Netherhall might be embarrassing. In the circumstances, I’ll go to the inn.”
“If you would sooner, Kit, I must agree.”
“Kit must stay here!” said Alan, and his eyes sparkled. “You have got a nasty knock, my boy, and I understand your feeling sore. In fact, I’ll risk stating that you have some cause to be annoyed. For all that, you’re my nephew and you are not going to the inn.”
“You are kind, sir, but I think you’re my only friend,” said Kit, and faced the others. “When I left the shipyard you were willing for me to steal off to Canada. I expect you really doubted my innocence, and you afterwards took it for granted I carelessly refused to use the chances I got. My remaining might be awkward, and I think you’ll be philosophical.”
“Come here, Kit!” said Jasper. “I want you and I cannot get up.”
Kit went to the couch. He felt he owed Jasper nothing and the old fellow had joined his antagonists. For all that, his weakness bothered him.
“You must be just, and your statement was not accurate,” Jasper resumed. “I, at all events, did not think you robbed the shipyard company.”
“If you felt I was not the sort to let down my employers, I’m flattered; but I imagine you had some other grounds——”