“And what would you be prepared to settle on my daughter, providing I gave my consent? Have you thought of that matter?”
I confessed that I had not, but that I would be ready, if she so desired, to settle upon her twenty thousand pounds.
“And that wouldn’t cripple you—eh?”
“No, I’m pleased to say it would not. I have kept my inheritance practically intact,” I added.
“Well, I must first hear what Sylvia has to say,” he said; then he added airily, “I suppose you would make over the greater part of your estate to her, in case of your death? And there are life assurances, of course? One never knows what may happen, you know. Pardon me for speaking thus frankly. As a father, however, it is my duty to see that my daughter’s future is safeguarded.”
“I quite understand all that,” I replied, with a smile. “Of course, Sylvia would inherit all I could legally bequeath to her, and as for life assurances, I would insure myself for what sum you suggest.”
“You are young,” he said. “Insure for ten thousand. The premiums would be not so very heavy.”
“As you wish,” I replied. “If I carry out your desires, I understand that I have your consent to pay my attentions to Sylvia?”
“If what you tell me proves, on inquiry, to be the truth, Mr. Biddulph, I shall have the greatest pleasure in welcoming you as my son-in-law. I can’t say more,” he replied. “Here’s my hand,” and as I took his, he gripped me heartily. “I confess I like you now,” he added, “and I feel sure I shall like you more when I know more concerning you.”
Then he added, with a laugh—