"Well," he said, "I have, of course, no objections to make; but, as one of her trustees, it's my duty to look after Sylvia's interests. As you know, she is not rich."
"I suppose these points must he talked over," Bland said, with indifference.
"It's usual, and in the present case, necessary. What provision are you able to make?"
Bland looked a little uncomfortable. "As a matter of fact, I'd find it difficult to make any provision. I get along fairly well, as it is, but I've only about four hundred a year besides my pay."
"How far does your pay go?" Herbert asked dryly.
"It covers my mess bills and a few expenses of that nature."
Herbert leaned back in his chair with a smile.
"Hasn't it struck you that you should have chosen a wife with money?"
"Now," said Bland rather sternly, "I don't want to lie open to any misconception, but I understood that Mrs. Marston had some means. I'm quite prepared to hear they're small."
"That's fortunate, because it may save you a shock. Sylvia owns a farm in Canada, which did not repay the cost of working it last year. During the present one there has been an improvement, and we expect a small surplus on the two years' operations. The place has been valued at—but perhaps I had better give you a few figures, showing you how matters stand."