“I don't like that, either. But I can't help it.” He added, “Of course, mother, I shall not go without your full and free consent. You and father must settle it between you.” He fetched a quick, worried sigh as he put his hand on the door.
“Ben isn't himself at all,” said Mrs. Halleck, with tears in her eyes, after he had left the room.
“No,” said her husband. “He's restless. He'll get over this idea in a few days.” He urged this hope against his wife's despair, and argued himself into low spirits.
“I don't believe but what it would be the best thing for his health, may be,” said Mrs. Halleck, at the end.
“I've always had my doubts whether he would ever come to anything in the law,” said the father.
The elder sisters discussed Halleck's project apart between themselves, as their wont was with any family interest, and they bent over a map of South America, so as to hide what they were doing from their mother.
Olive had left the room by another door, and she intercepted Halleck before he reached his own.
“What is the matter, Ben?” she whispered.
“Nothing,” he answered, coldly. But he added, “Come in, Olive.”
She followed him, and hovered near after he turned up the gas.