Rupert Hamilton’s heart gave one tremendous bound at these words, and he cast a startled look into the friendly face beside him, knowing intuitively what was coming.
“If I am in any way connected with this disagreeable duty, sir, I hope you will speak frankly,” he managed to stammer.
“Thank you. I felt sure that you would receive what I have to say in a friendly spirit,” Mr. Knight continued, pitying the embarrassed lover sincerely. “I am an old man, my boy, but I have been young and do not forget the temptations and pleasures belonging to youth; neither can I find it in my heart to blame two charming people for recognizing a congenial spirit, and turning to each other for companionship; but——”
Rupert Hamilton turned now, and looked squarely into his aged friend’s countenance.
“In other words, sir, you wish to speak with me regarding my admiration for Miss Alexander, which, of course, I know you have not failed to remark,” he said, in a manly, outspoken fashion, that pleased Mr. Knight well, though a deep red flush mantled his cheek.
“You are right, that is just what I wish to confer with you about,” the elder gentleman returned, adding, “You will no doubt appreciate the responsibility of my position, when I tell you that Miss Alexander is the only child of a very dear friend, and the young lady was intrusted to my own and my sister’s care, during the journey, because her mother was not herself able to accompany her. We therefore feel that it would be very unwise and dishonorable on our part, to allow her to receive, from any one, attentions which might tend to hamper her future in any way. For this reason, I wish to speak a word of caution to you. Virgie is very young, and I do not believe she has given a thought to what might result from this pleasant intercourse, and I should deeply regret it if she should become involved in any affair of the heart while away from her mother.”
“You are right, sir;” Rupert answered, gravely, after a moment of thought, “and I thank you for your timely admonition, else, in a moment of impulse, I might have been led to betray more of my regard for Miss Alexander than would be wise or right, under the circumstances. I will deal as frankly with you, as you have dealt with me, and confess that I admire her more than any young lady I have ever met. She is very lovely, and”—the flush on his handsome face deepening—“were you her father instead of her temporary guardian, I should boldly ask your permission to address her with the hope of some day winning her affection.”
Mr. Knight smiled upon the eager lover.
“I imagine that I have spoken none too soon,” he said. “I am afraid that sly little god, Cupid, has already wrought more mischief than I will be able to remedy. But I admire your candor, Mr. Hamilton, and if you desire a more intimate acquaintance with my pretty little ward, by and by, I will give you her address and you can seek her in her own home, where there will be no ogre to rear obstacles in your path.”
“Do not call yourself hard names, Mr. Knight,” Rupert said, regarding him with a look of profound respect. “I am sure you have done only what you believe to be right.”