ever it is mine. Many of these trees must come down, and the flower-garden must be modernized; it is in wretched taste.”
“It seems to me to suit well with the house; are you a gardener!” inquired Captain Hepburn.
“Not personally in the least; but I like to have things nice, only somebody must do the work for me; I know nothing of details,” replied Mr. Ufford.
“I always think a practical knowledge and love of gardening, give a certain reality and sincerity to a man’s character, which is singularly useful; especially in your profession, Mr. Ufford.”
“It would be a curious speculation,” replied the other, “whether facts bear out your idea. I will take it into consideration, whether the best gardeners of my acquaintance are the best clergymen, and the most practical men. Would not a love of construction save a man’s character? I have a great fancy for building, I own; and I expect some day to realize my plans on the Vicarage. That old house must come down. I could not live in it.”
“I have received so much kindness here,” replied his companion, “that I can not contemplate such a change without regret. It is a comfort, however, to think that when an event so trying to the Vicar’s daughters arrives, as that which will make you master here, they will have a friend, and not a stranger, to deal with.”
“Poor things! I am really sorry for them,” said the curate; “it will be a sad trouble. I think an Elizabethan house would look best here; would suit the place and country. Don’t you?” eyeing the old Vicarage as he spoke with an air of consideration.
“I have not thought about it at all,” replied Captain Hepburn, with internal disgust. “I fear they will be sadly forlorn and unprotected; their brother away, perhaps, and they so young and ignorant of the world.”
“You are unnecessarily anxious about them, Captain Hepburn;
they will find friends, depend on it. I can understand your feelings of interest, however, although I can take more cheerful views of their prospects. Believe me, nothing on my part shall be wanting. I have strong motives to influence me—my sincere gratitude—remembrance of kindness received—regard, honor; in short, make yourself easy. Their comfort and happiness shall be my first object. I pledge myself to that. Pray trust me!”