"Very well, aunt. I will be guarded by your wishes."
On the whole the young man was not sorry to have his duties transferred to another. Though he had seldom been occupied more than three hours daily, even those had been irksome to him.
"When do you wish me to find a new home, aunt?" he asked.
"You can consult your own convenience."
"I will look around to-morrow, then. Do you wish me to initiate my successor in the duties of his position?"
"It will not be necessary. They are simple, and I will give him all the aid he requires."
When they rose from the table Frederic Vernon invited Robert to go out with him.
"I will take you to some place of amusement," he said.
His object was to get better acquainted with his successor, and report unfavorably to his aunt.
"Thank you," answered Robert. "You are very kind, but I am tired, and I should like to arrange my clothing in my chamber. Some other time I shall be glad to accept your invitation."