'I care for your opinion as much as ever I did,' said James.

'Exactly so,' said Louis, laughing.

'I desire to have your judgment in this matter.'

'If I could judge, I would,' said Louis. 'I see you right in
principle, but are you right in spirit? I own my heart bleeds for
Aunt Kitty, regaining her son to battle with her grandson.'

'I am very sorry for her,' said James; 'but it can't be helped. I
cannot resign my duties here for the sake of living dependent on a
suitable allowance.'

'Ah! Jem! Jem! Oliver little knew the damage his neglect did you.'

'What damage?'

'The fostering an ugly little imp of independence.'

'Aye! you grandees have naturally a distaste for independence, and
make common cause against it.'

'Especially when in a rabid state. Take care, Jem. Independence
never was a Christian duty yet--'

'Then, you want me to go and live on the hoards for the sake of which
my grandmother was left to toil. You would like to see me loitering
about, pensioned to swell the vanity of Cheveleigh, neglecting my
vows, forsaking my duties--'