“Oh, yes; they are often provokingly stubborn and unreasonable, and yet not independent about money, or anything they can get out of you. Besides, I acknowledge that I have become wiser of late; I used to like to see them dependent and cringing to me, but now I dread it.”
“But you would like David to give in about the singing, wouldn't you?”
“Yes, if he would give in I should be very proud. I have learnt a great deal from him; I used positively to dislike him; but, now that I know him, I think him the best man in the parish. If he ever does give in—and I think he will—it will be worth anything, just because he is so independent.”
“That's all very well; but what am I to do to show Harry Winburn that I mean to be his friend, if he won't take money from me?”
“You have come over to his mother's funeral—he will think more of that than of all the money you could give him; and you can show sympathy for him in a great many ways.”
“Well, I must try. By the way, about his love affair; is the young lady at home? I have never seen her, you know.”
“No she is away with an aunt, looking out for a place. I have persuaded her to get one, and leave home again for the present. Her father is quite well now, and she is not wanted.”
“Well, it seems I can't do any good with her, then; but could I not go and talk to her father about Harry? I might help him in that way.”
“You must be very careful; Simon is such an odd-tempered old man.”
“Oh, I'm not afraid; he and I are great chums; and a little soft soap will go a long way with him. Fancy, if I could get him this very morning to 'sanction Harry's suit,' as the phrase is, what should you think of me?”