“I want no more money,” cried the young man, hotly. “You know that perfectly well, grandfather.”
The old man subsided and collapsed into his pillows.
“I merely came to thank you, and to shake you by the hand. I am answering a patriotic call; and, if I fall in the war, you’ll have no heir but my mother.”
“Don’t flatter yourself that you’re my heir, sir. I’ll have you know you’re not, sir. No delusions. You need expect nothing from me.”
Dick gave a despairing sigh, and turned away.
“Well, then, good-bye, grandfather. If I get shot—”
“Go and get shot, sir—and be damned to you!” cried the old man.
“You are in a bad temper, grandfather. I’ve said my adieu. You have always misunderstood and abused me. Good-bye. I’ll offend you no longer.”
The young man stalked out haughtily, and old Herresford collapsed again; but he tried to rally. His strength failed him. He leaned over the side of his bed, gasping from his outburst, and called faintly: