"Jim Canter came from his father to propose—to suggest a modus vivendi, as it were. It means that they have started a blaze they cannot extinguish—that they are having trouble with their people, and fear that our people are coming around, but it means something further, too, I think." Mr. Leigh ceased talking, and appeared to be reflecting.
"What?" said the girl, after waiting a moment.
"You know—your aunt—however—" He paused.
She rose and faced him.
"Father, I wouldn't marry him to save his life—and I have told both him and Aunt Sophia so." Mr. Leigh gave a sigh of relief.
"You, of course, declined the proposal they made?" said Eleanor.
"I did—I think they have broken with the Argand interest. I saw your aunt to-day, and had a talk with her. I think her eyes are opened at last. I told her a few plain truths."
He dropped into reflection and a quizzical expression came into his eyes.
"I had a very remarkable thing happen to me to-day."
"What was it?" demanded his daughter.