"Aren't you a bit cynical, Olive?"
"I was only wondering whether these people were worth considering, father. As you know, I don't care a little bit about what is called society, and I have been thinking about other plans for the future."
"What plans?"
"I have been trying to think what I shall do with my life."
"Yes?" said John Castlemaine eagerly.
"Yes. We cannot live here for ever idly; at least, I cannot. Besides, it would not be right. Even if we were to take part in the social life of the county, I could not content myself to be a mere butterfly. Following the hounds, going to dances, paying calls, and the rest of it, is not a very interesting programme."
"No, it is not," John Castlemaine assented.
"I love the country," said Olive, "far more than I love the city, and—and I want to live in the country. Besides, there is as much work to do here as there is in the city. Of another kind, perhaps, but just as important."
"I think so, too; but what do you propose doing?"
"We have some responsibility towards the people here. Especially those on the estate you have bought. As it is very large, that will involve a great deal of work."