"If you knew," she answered, after a slight pause, "why need you inquire?"
"I wished to know whether you had sent him away, intending to keep his destination a secret."
"I suppose he has written to you."
"He did write to me; but the letter was suppressed by your brother. May I inquire whether this was by your wish?"
"What you tell me is news to me," said Mrs. Oakley; "but I have no hesitation in saying that my brother understands my wishes, and will carry them out."
"I am answered," said the lawyer. "Is it your intention to permit John to continue his studies preparatory for college?"
"It is not."
"It was his father's wish and intention. That wish ought to be sacred with you."
"I understand my duty."
"I trust you will do something more than understand it," said the lawyer, gravely. "I must remonstrate with you on your intentions with regard to John. He is an excellent scholar, and his abilities are superior. It would be a great pity that he should be debarred from the privilege of a college education."