He rang the bell, ordered some brandy and soda, and continued:
'Now, I've got some pride in the old place, too, father: I don't want to see Jinny send Kingscourt spinning the moment you die. Well, this is what I propose. I'm no good. I'm played out. I've had my turn. Well, now, if you'll clear off my debts this time, and start me free with 5000 pounds—giving it in trust to somebody—so that I can have my 200 pounds or 250 pounds a year—then I'll consent to quash the entail; you bring home Frank, and give him Kingscourt. That's better than being a sailor, and he'll look after the old place.'
The old man regarded him calmly, but also with a strange, wistful, sad look.
'I had thought of it. But is there no other way, Alfred?'
'No. I'm broke. I'm done. If you want to save Kingscourt, that's the only way.'
'And you?'
'I've had my turn; I can't complain. Sooner or later Jinny'll bolt.
Then I'll go to the States and try my hand at something.'
'Do you know they've just made Frank commander?'
'He'll be glad to leave the navy, all the same. Fellows can't marry while they're in the navy.'
'What are your debts now, Alfred?'