Colonel Brownlow made a sign of displeased acquiescence, so like his
brother when Carey was a little impetuous or naughty, that she
instantly felt shocked at herself, and faltered, "I beg your pardon."

He seemed not to notice this, but went on, "As you say, it may be
wise to consult Dr. Lucas. Perhaps, putting it up to competition
would be the best way."

"Oh, no," said Caroline. "Have you a letter from Dr. Drake?"

"No."

"Then depend upon it he must have too much delicacy to begin about it
so soon. I had rather he had it than anyone else."

"Can he make a fair offer for it? You cannot afford to throw away a
substantial benefit for preferences," said the Colonel. "At the
outside, you will not have more than five hundred pounds a year, and
I fear you will feel much straitened after what you are used to, with
four boys, and such ideas as to their education," he added smiling.

"I don't know, but I am sure it is what Joe would wish. He had
rather trust his patients to Harry-—to Dr. Drake—than to anyone, and
he is just going to be married, and wants a practice; I shall write
to him. It is so nice of him not to have pressed forward."

"You will not commit yourself?" said Colonel Brownlow. "Remember
that your children's interests are at stake, and must not be
sacrificed to a predilection."