‘I am glad to see you at last, sir,’ he said, grasping the extended hand cordially.
‘That’s right. I like a man who can give you a grip when he does shake hands. If he can’t, he ought to leave it alone. I don’t bother much with hand-shaking. A nod’s as good in our part. But coming so far, you see—— Oh, all right’ (the last phrase was like a private exclamation, as he suddenly remembered something).... ‘Sit down. Have anything?’
‘No; thank you.’
‘Ah, right, right. Under orders, I suppose. Forgot your accident. How’s the ribs?’
‘Pretty well, I am happy to say,’ answered Philip, smiling at the droll, gruff, abrupt style of his uncle, and appreciating the kindliness which was clearly visible through it. ‘The doctors tell me I shall never know that the accident happened.’
‘That’s good. Now you know what we are not to speak about, and what we are to speak about is yourself.’
‘That is generally an agreeable subject.’
‘Should be always to a youngster like you. Now, I want to start you in life. That was my promise, and I am able to keep it. What is your notion of a start?’
‘I have not decided yet. The result of my journey to you was to settle what was to follow. As that journey is now unnecessary, I think of entering for the bar or medicine.’
‘Stuff. Too many lawyers and doctors already. You keep in mind who it was wished you to come to me?... You needn’t speak.—I see you do. Then will you obey her, and become my partner?’