Glancing at the others, he knew that he had said enough. It would have been difficult for any of the family to cite a remark of his in open disparagement of his brother-in-law, though he had cunningly fostered their disbelief in him. His wife, however, was endowed with courage as well as candor. "There is nothing to be gained by shutting one's eyes to the truth," she observed. "We all know that Andrew's visits to this woman are being talked about. What is more serious is that he induced her to come here, and let her have The Firs on purely nominal terms." "Is it so bad as that?" Mrs. Fenwood, with a shocked look, turned to the clergyman, as if begging him to deal with the painful situation. "The thing must be stopped; nipped in the bud," said Robert firmly. "I agree with Leonard that our infatuated relative should be sent to Canada at once." Wannop smiled. "It strikes me as fortunate that Andrew is willing to go." "It's a favorable sign," said Mrs. Fenwood. "He may be struggling against the creature's influence, in which case it's our duty to assist him." "That wasn't what I meant. I've a suspicion that we have fallen into a habit of underestimating Andrew's abilities and determination." Wannop looked hard at Leonard. "You are going to put him into a position of responsibility and teach him to use his power. Are you prepared for the possible consequences?" Nobody paid much attention to this, and Leonard after a moment's hesitation dismissed the matter. The Allinsons regarded Wannop as a thoughtless person whose moral code was somewhat lax. Nevertheless, he was shrewd and had read Andrew's character better than Leonard. "If Andrew ever wishes to have his say in business matters, I should have neither the desire nor the authority to object," Leonard said. "Then we may rest assured that everything will be done to facilitate his departure for Canada," Robert said decidedly. "There is only another point--I wonder whether Mrs. Olcott could by any means be induced to leave the neighborhood." Wannop's eyes sparkled angrily. He was easy-going, but there was a chivalrous vein in him. "It would be wiser to leave the hatching of the plot until Andrew has sailed!" he said indignantly. "Plot is not the right word; and you are mistaken if you imagine that any fear of Andrew's displeasure would deter me in a matter of duty. With the welfare of the parish at heart----" Wannop checked him. "Duty's a good deal easier when it chimes with one's inclinations; and the welfare of the parish isn't threatened by Mrs. Olcott. There are, however, one or two abuses you could put your finger on to-morrow if you liked, though I dare say it would get you into trouble." Robert reddened and Mrs. Wannop made her husband a peremptory sign to stop. "I think we needn't talk about the matter any more," she said. "It is decided that Andrew shall be sent to Canada."