"That is, of course, the one feeling which underlies everything. I will, if you like, see him in your name."
"Dick was going to write to him as the son of Anthony Woodroffe," said Molly.
"I know his proposals. We have to consider, however, the possible effect which the discovery of the truth will produce upon this unfortunate—most unfortunate—young man."
"Why is he unfortunate?" asked his mother jealously. "He will be restored to his own mother."
"I am going to tell you why. Meantime, you will agree with me that it is most important that the communication of the truth must not embitter this young man, at the outset, against his mother."
"No, no. He must not be set against me."
"Quite so. Dick proposes, I understand, to address a letter to him as the son of the late Mr. Anthony Woodroffe—better known as John Anthony—and inviting him to pay certain liabilities. As to the wisdom of that step, I have no doubt. It can produce no other effect than to fill him with rage and bitterness against all concerned, all—every one—without exception."
He shook a warning finger at one after the other.
"But he must know," said Molly.