'Private—not secret,' Pitt answered thoughtfully, too busy with his own thoughts to regard his father's manner. 'At least the conclusion cannot be secret.'
'It might do no harm to discuss the subject,' said his father, still lightly.
'I cannot see how it would do any good. It is my own affair. And I thought it might be better to wait till the conclusion was reached. However, that may not be for some time; and if you wish'—
'We wish to share in whatever is interesting you, Pitt,' his mother said gently.
'Yes, mother, but at present things are not in any order to please you.
You had better wait till I see daylight.'
'Is it a question of marriage?' asked his father suddenly.
'No, sir.'
'A question of Uncle Strahan's wishes?' suggested Mrs. Dallas.
'No, mother.' And then with a little hesitation he went on: 'I have been thinking merely what master I would serve. Upon that would depend, in part, what service I would do;—of course.'
'What master? Mars or Minerva, to wit? or possibly Apollo? Or what was the god who was supposed to preside over the administration of justice? I forget.'