Fred. (with apparent reluctance). There is much truth in what you say, still——
Mr. S. To marry into such a family as hers, now that we know the truth, would be, as it were, to countenance her guilt.
Fred. I can not deny it. Nevertheless, I——
Mr. S. Would it be just—would it be moral to do this?
Fred. No, no; I see it now.
Mr. S. Show yourself to be a man of moral courage. As for what the world will say, do the right thing, my boy, and let them say what they please.
Fred. (after a pause). Father, you are right. As a moral man I have no alternative but to comply with your wish. At any cost it must be done—at any cost it shall be done!
Mr. S. That’s right, my dear, dear boy; and you shall find that you have lost little by your determination. And now that that’s settled, let us enter into your affairs. What was it that you wanted to speak to me so seriously about just now?
Fred. I? Oh, dear no.