d have a child, and that there should no longer be a proper
line.

The Squire's joy was too deep and well founded to be in any way
damped by poor Gregory's ill-humour, and was too closely present to
him for him to be capable of restraining it. Why should he restrain
himself before his son? "I am sorry for Greg," he said, "because he
has old-fashioned ideas. But of course it will be for the best. His
brother would have squandered every acre of it." To this Ralph made
no answer. It might probably have been as his father said. It was
perhaps best for all who lived in and by the estate that he should be
the heir. And gradually the feeling of exultation in his own position
was growing upon him. It was natural that it should do so. He knew
himself to be capable of filling with credit, and with advantage to
all around him, the great place which was now assigned to him, and
it was impossible that he should not be exultant. And he owed it to
his father to show him that he appreciated all that had been done
for him. "I think he ought to have the L35,000 at least," said the
Squire.

"Certainly," said Ralph.

"I think so. As for the bulk sum, I have already written to Carey
about that. No time ought to be lost. There is no knowing what might
happen. He might die."

"He doesn't look like dying, sir."

"He might break his neck out hunting. There is no knowing. At any
rate there should be no delay. From what I am told I don't think that
with the timber and all they'll make it come to another L5,000; but
he shall have that. As he has behaved well, I'll show him that I can
behave well too. I've half a mind to go up to London, and stay till
it's all through."

"You'd only worry yourself."

"I should worry myself, no doubt. And do you know, I love the place
so much better than I did, that I can hardly bear to tear myself away
from it. The first mark of my handiwork, now that I can work, shall
be put upon Darvell's farm. I'll have the old place about his ears
before I am a day older."

"You'll not get it through before winter."

"Yes, I will. If it costs me an extra L50 I shan't begrudge it. It
shall be a sort of memorial building, a farmhouse of thanksgiving.
I'll make it as snug a place as there is about the property. It has
made me wretched for these two years."

"I hope all that kind of wretchedness will be over now."

"Thank God;--yes. I was looking at Brownriggs to-day,--and Ingram's.
I don't think we'll sell either.