“Father, did you love my mother?” asked Robert, softening for a moment.
“As my life, my boy,” and his lip quivered.
“Even so I love Dora, and I cannot give her up.”
“That is all gammon, Robert,” replied his father, again becoming excited. “If you were older, I might think there was something in it; but you two; such a couple of babies—bah! I say you shall give her up.”
Robert turned moodily to the window.
“Will you, boy?”
“No, sir.”
“Very well,” icily responded Mr. Ellerton. “Prepare yourself to start for Germany to-morrow morning. Major Atherton will take charge of you, and place you in an institution, where I hope rigid discipline and a thorough education will bring you to your senses.”
Saying which he hastily left the room, again locking the door after him.
Robert caught his breath quickly.