faithfully executed, but they seemed to show that Frank was the kind of
person who really carried through what other people only talked
about--and especially if he announced beforehand that he intended to do
it.

It was a little dismaying, therefore, for his friend to reflect that
upon the arrival of the famous letter from Lord Talgarth--Frank's
father--six days previously, in which all the well-worn phrases occurred
as to "darkening doors" and "roof" and "disgrace to the family," Frank
had announced that he proposed to take his father at his word, sell up
his property and set out like a prince in a fairy-tale to make his
fortune.

* * * * *

Jack had argued till he was sick of it, and to no avail. Frank had a
parry for every thrust. Why wouldn't he wait a bit until the governor
had had time to cool down? Because the governor must learn, sooner or
later, that words really meant something, and that he--Frank--was not
going to stand it for one instant.

Why wouldn't he come and stay at Barham till further notice? They'd all
be delighted to have him: It was only ten miles off Merefield, and
perhaps--Because Frank was not going to sponge upon his friends. Neither
was he going to skulk about near home. Well, if he was so damned
obstinate, why didn't he go into the City--or even to the Bar? Because
(1) he hadn't any money; and (2) he would infinitely sooner go on the
tramp than sit on a stool. Well, why didn't he enlist, like a
gentleman? Frank dared say he would some time, but he wanted to stand by
himself a bit first and see the world.