“Bella,” he said in a low voice, and he remembered how once she had begged to be admitted to his study and he had refused.
With a cry she flung open the door, and in a moment they were clasped in one another’s arms; he pressed her to his heart, but in his emotion found no word to say. She drew him in eagerly.
“Herbert, here’s my father.”
The youth was lying on the bed in the next room, and Bella led the Dean in. Herbert was too tired to rise.
“I’ve come to take you both home,” said the old man, tears of joy in his voice.
“Oh, father, I’m so glad. You’re not angry with me any longer. It’ll make me so happy if you forgive me.”
“It’s not you that need forgiveness, but I, Bella. I want to ask your husband to pardon my unkindness. I’ve been harsh and proud and cruel.”
He went to Herbert and took his hand.
“Will you forgive me, my dear? Will you allow me to be your father as well as Bella’s?”
“I shall be very grateful.”