Paul started. This was taking his business out of his hands with a vengeance; but his brother-in-law went on:
"I know what you would say. You wish to do more for your wife than merely give her the use of what is her own. I have heard you repeat a hundred times that you should wish your wife to be dependent entirely on you. I acknowledge it is a noble sentiment; but you must remember that travelling is expensive; and though your client pays fare, etc., there will be occasions when you will need all the money you can raise."
"Just so," faltered Paul. "Just so; but if I should return in six months."
"Leave Gerty at Rose Cottage through the summer and board at one of your hotels. Just say the word, or rather give me power to do it; and I'll have the business all arranged for you before I go back." He drew a sheet of paper toward him, wrote rapidly over the page and then passed it to his brother-in-law to sign.
It was all so sudden that Paul could form no excuse; and presently Mr. Wallingford left, the office with a power of attorney in his hands to manage his sister's property, during the absence of her husband.
"What does this mean?" exclaimed Marion Gilbert, entering the next morning while they were at the breakfast table, and pointing to an advertisement in the paper.
Edward glanced toward his brother-in-law to explain.
"Only this, Miss Gilbert. My business calls me across the ocean; and it is better not to have a house stand empty."
"Oh, Gerty, how can I spare you?" exclaimed Marion in real distress.
"I'm not going to Europe," murmured the young wife. "Mr. Dudley's is a hurried trip on business; but as he and Edward think it will be best to rent the house; and it can't be leased for less than a year, I shall probably remain that length of time at Rose Cottage."