"Take a seat, Mr. Talbot," said Mrs. Mason coldly.
"How do you happen to be at home, Mark?" asked Solon, regarding Mark with a slight frown.
"I got excused for the afternoon. I have a headache."
"Perhaps you won't mind going out for a few minutes. I wish to speak to your mother on business."
"Do you wish me to go out, mother?" asked Mark.
"No. Whatever affects you affects me. Besides, I may want your advice."
"I don't ask Edgar for advice," returned Solon Talbot dryly.
"I suppose not. You are a business man, and can judge better than he. I am not a business man."
"You are older than Mark."
"I have always found Mark a safe and good adviser."