Ledward thanked him, and when he took the check looked up in surprise. Almost he doubted if he read the figures accurately, but the writing in the body of the form agreed.
“Your generosity is almost embarrassing, sir. I feel I ought not to take a sum like this——”
“When one marries I imagine money’s useful, and I didn’t see much advantage in your waiting for a legacy. Besides, to know an avaricious Government will not claim its share is some comfort,” Jasper replied.
Ledward began to understand, but he waited, and Jasper continued:
“I am accountable for your starting on a business career. I excited your ambition, and perhaps your hopes.”
“You made it possible for me to marry——” Ledward remarked, and stopped, for he saw Jasper’s twinkle.
“The ground is awkward? Your beaten rival is my nephew. Well, if Evelyn and you are happy, Kit must bear his loss; and I want to talk about something else. Your help is useful, and since a wife is expensive, I must put up your pay.” Jasper stated the increase and resumed: “So long as I can carry on and you are willing to work for me, you will get the sum. The important thing is, it’s all you will get.”
Ledward tried to brace up. The wedding present and increased pay was not all he had thought to get; but he admitted his employer was just.
“I am content, sir.”
“Very well. I don’t know if Evelyn will be as philosophical, but that’s another thing. Before very long I shall be forced to stop, and you are not my heir. For all that, my successor will need you, and I will stipulate for you to keep your post.”