“I can. Folliott said that they should take no action on it for twenty-four hours, but hold it in abeyance for that term. Fanshawe suggested that, indeed insisted on it.”
“Fortunate for you that a practical man was with you. I have a respect for Mr. Fanshawe which I did not feel before. Well, my dear Wilfrid, you can’t hesitate.”
Bertram does hesitate.
He looks across at the roses.
“Will you decide for me, Miss Seymour?”
“It is a great responsibility,” she replies, and her colour rises.
She plays with one of the roses nervously for a few moments. At last she looks up and says gravely:
“I think you should accept, Mr. Bertram. To you such wealth would be no sinecure, but always regarded as a great trust to be employed for the welfare of others.”
Bertram bends his head.
“Since you think so, I will endeavour to merit your opinion of me.”