"Mr. Tubbs wishes you to begin work a week from next Monday. You can go to school another week, if you wish."
"I shall not care to do so. I shall want a week to think over the change in my life."
"Just as you please."
"Have you anything more to say to me?" asked Gerald rising.
"Yes."
To Gerald's surprise his stepmother's manner changed, and she seemed nervous and no longer cool and self-possessed.
"Very well."
"I am about to tell you something that may surprise you, though it was, of course, known to your father."
Gerald's curiosity was excited. It must be something of importance, or Mrs. Lane's self-possession would not be disturbed.
"Probably you are aware that when I married your father I was a widow."