"Yes—after Carroll he is the richest man in Maryland.—You have met young Carroll."
Parkington nodded. "He seemed a particularly nice fellow."
"He is—though we scarcely know him. He has been in France since he was eight years of age, getting his education under the Jesuits, and, in London, studying law in the Temple: he returned home only last year. Having polished himself, he will now spend the rest of his life looking after his property."
"A pleasant occupation—when one has sufficient to look after."
"And at which only about half of us are even moderately successful. If I can retain my own, and my wife's, I shall be more than thankful. As for Marbury"—he ended with a gesture.
"Which means?" said Parkington.
Plater laughed. "That is what I do not know. He has two children—you have seen them, what is your estimate?"
"I have not seen enough to form an estimate, but I should say young Mr. Marbury shows excellent promise."
"Only promise! Exactly, Sir Edward; but he should show more than promise. He is a charming young man, but can he hold together the Marbury fortune. I admit that I and all the others are undecided. As for Miss Marbury——"