“My dear, it’s not always easy to express what one feels, and I dare say I’m injudicious in choosing my words. But your welfare is very near to my heart.”
“I know that,” he answered gently. “But you were not describing an imaginary paragon. Hadn’t you Millicent in your mind?”
“I should be very happy if I could welcome her as my daughter. I should feel that you were safe then.”
There was a thrill of regret in her voice that touched him. It hinted that she blamed herself for omissions and lack of wisdom in his upbringing. Besides, her confidence in any one who had won her respect, as Millicent had done, was bestowed so generously.
“I’m afraid I’ve often given you trouble, and I do you little credit now,” he said. “But, as to the other matter, one can’t be sure that Millicent would welcome the idea. Of late I’ve had a suspicion that she hasn’t a very high opinion of me.”
“You could hardly expect to gain it by devoting yourself to Miss Crestwick.”
The man smiled rather grimly.
“If it’s any consolation to you, I’m inclined to think that Miss Crestwick has let me drop. The truth’s not very flattering, but I can’t hide it.”
Mrs. Gladwyne’s relief was obvious, but she had more to say and she ventured upon it with some courage.
“If you would only get rid of Batley too!”