In Search of a Son

by William S. Walsh

"Then you refuse?"

"Why, no,—I only make that condition."

"Yes, father; but as we cannot fulfil the condition, it is equal to a refusal."

"Why cannot you fulfil it? What is there so difficult about it?"

"You know as well as I, my dear father, Monsieur Roger has been for some time very sad, very preoccupied; he wants to remain by himself, and consequently he will refuse to go to the farm."

"Who knows?"

"Well, at all events, I would not dare to ask him."

"Well, then, let Paul do it."

"But what would Paul say?"

"He will say that I am detained here, that I cannot come with you, and that, not thinking it prudent to allow you to go fishing alone, I object to it unless Monsieur Roger will consent to take my place."