‘I am glad I came. If Phil should be ill long, it would have given that rascal Belassis opportunity to tyrannize still more over those two poor women, and perhaps bully Maud into a marriage with his precious son.’ At this point Tor’s brow contracted, and his face grew stern. ‘I will not have her bullied. She is a very sweet girl, and she shall not be forced into a distasteful marriage for anyone. There is nothing more improbable than that she cares two straws for that affected jackanapes of a cousin; she has far too much sense and spirit. Yes, it certainly is high time that some one came over to look into things, and to put a spoke into old Belassis’ wheel. He may have managed matters very cleverly, but I have strong suspicions that he has feathered his nest pretty well at the expense of the Debenhams. I’m not a man of business myself, but I hope I’m not a fool: and though I know nothing of the law, I suppose I can find a man who does. Honest lawyers may be scarce, but I imagine they are to be found. Yes, Uncle Belassis, we will soon see how we stand together, you and I; and if my suspicions verify themselves——’ Tor paused and laughed a little to himself at the picture his fancy drew, after which his face grew grave, and he continued his soliloquy meditatively. ‘I flatter myself I shall manage this business better than the true heir. Phil would let old Belassis lead him by the nose far too readily. He will find me a tougher subject to deal with than his own nephew; only I must be cautious, and not launch poor Phil into a family feud needlessly, for that would be sorely against his peaceable tastes. I expect there will be a row in time, but meantime I must keep the peace as far as possible. It is that Mrs. Belassis who is most hostile. She seems as ready for the fray as I am; but there must be no recklessness on my part. I must not show my hand too soon. At present I have no hand to show. My duty just now seems to be to make myself very agreeable to everyone.’ With that amiable resolution in his mind, Tor completed his toilet and descended leisurely. It was still early, and the morning gloriously bright and fine. The door into the garden stood wide open, and Tor strolled willingly into the sunny world without. Next moment Maud was running to meet him, as fresh and sweet, in her simple white dress, as the flowers she held in her hand. ‘Phil, dear old Phil!’ she cried, standing on tip-toe to kiss him. ‘It is so good to have you here. How nice you do look! I am so glad you are tall and handsome and not a bit like anybody else. I can’t bear _pretty_-looking men, with little neat moustaches, and glossy hair, and dapper clothes. I like them to look like men—just as you do.’ Tor laughed, and drew her hand within his arm. He looked down into the bright face, with its tender, gracious curves and loving fearless eyes, and felt that it was a face which was good to look at and good to love.