is to be will be and what isn't to be happens sometimes. And it
is precisely such unchancy happenings that make the scheme of
things go wrong. I dare say you think me an old fogy, Eric; but
I know something more of the world than you do, and I believe,
with Tennyson's _Arthur_, that 'there's no more subtle master
under heaven than is the maiden passion for a maid.' I want to
see you safely anchored to the love of some good woman as soon as
may be, that's all. I'm rather sorry Miss Campion isn't your
lady of the future. I liked her looks, that I did. She is good
and strong and true--and has the eyes of a woman who could love
in a way that would be worth while. Moreover, she's well-born,
well-bred, and well-educated--three very indispensable things
when it comes to choosing a woman to fill your mother's place,
friend of mine!"

"I agree with you," said Eric carelessly. "I could not marry any
woman who did not fulfill those conditions. But, as I have said,
I am not in love with Agnes Campion--and it wouldn't be of any
use if I were. She is as good as engaged to Larry West. You
remember West?"

"That thin, leggy fellow you chummed with so much your first two
years in Queenslea? Yes, what has become of him?"

"He had to drop out after his second year for financial reasons.
He is working his own way through college, you know. For the
past two years he has been teaching school in some out-of-the-way
place over in Prince Edward Island. He isn't any too well, poor
fellow--never was very strong and has studied remorselessly. I
haven't heard from him since February. He said then that he was