"Well, then, in whose behalf is this liberality really meant; mine, or that of the gentleman?"
"Fairly enough put," said John Effingham, laughing, again drawing Eve towards him and saluting her cheek; "for if I were on the rack, I could scarcely say which I love best, although you have the consolation of knowing, pert one, that you get the most kisses."
"I am almost in the same state of feeling myself, John, for a son of my own could scarcely be dearer to me than Paul."
"I see, indeed, that I must marry," said Eve hastily, dashing the tears of delight from her eyes, for what could give more delight than to hear the praises of her beloved, "if I wish to retain my place in your affections. But, father, we forget the question you were to put to cousin Jack."
"True, love. John, your mother was an Assheton?"
"Assuredly, Ned; you are not to learn my pedigree at this time of day, I trust."
"We are anxious to make out a relationship between you and Paul; can it not be done?"
"I would give half my fortune, Eve consenting, were it so!--What reason is there for supposing it probable, or even possible?"
"You know that he bears the name of his friend, and adopted parent, while that of his family is really Assheton."
"Assheton!" exclaimed the other, in a way to show that this was the first he had ever heard of the fact.