"I think you have done right and wisely in letting Bland know how things stand. It was only my interest in your future that warranted what I said."
"Well," she replied, "we will go up and talk to him; he's waiting. You can give your account to him."
George followed her, but for a while he was conscious of a certain restraint, which he fancied was shared by Bland. It was difficult to talk about indifferent subjects, and he took out some papers.
"I came to explain the state of Sylvia's Canadian affairs; she wished you to know," he said. "If you will give me a few minutes, I'll try to make things clear."
Bland listened gravely, and then made a sign of satisfaction.
"It's obvious that Sylvia placed her property in most capable hands.
We can only give you our sincere thanks."
"There's a point to be considered," George resumed. "Have you decided what to do with the property?"
"Sylvia and I have talked it over; we thought of selling. I don't see how we could carry on the farm."
"If you will let the matter stand over for a few weeks, I might be a purchaser. The land's poor, but there's a good deal of it, and I believe that, with proper treatment, it could be made to pay."
Sylvia looked astonished, Bland slightly embarrassed.