“I don’t know. I suppose my father.”
“Is your father living?”
“I don’t know.”
“Don’t know!” exclaimed John, opening his eyes.
“It seems strange to you; but I cannot give any explanation. My guardian tells me I shall know some time; meanwhile I am to ask no questions.”
“Did that satisfy you?”
“No; but when I pressed my question I was silenced. I was told that I must be satisfied with being so well provided for, without trying to penetrate into matters that did not concern me.”
“I should think it did concern you.”
“So I do think; but there is no use in thinking about it. It would only perplex me to no purpose.”
“I can’t put myself in your place at all. To me it seems so natural to have a father and mother, and sister. How lonely you must feel!”