"This way," he said, "through the conservatory."

Amidst the palms and tropical ferns Sir John paused. A great deal
of care had been devoted to this conservatory. Half hidden among
languorous scented flowers were a thousand tiny lights, while
overhead in the gloom towered graceful palms and bananas. A
fountain murmured pleasantly amidst a cluster of maidenhairs. The
music from the ballroom fell softly over all.

Sir John Meredith and his son stood in silence, looking around them.
Finally their eyes met.

"Are you in earnest with that girl?" asked Sir John abruptly.

"I am," replied Jack. He was smiling pleasantly.

"And you think there is a chance of her marrying you--unless, of
course, something better turns up?"

"With all due modesty I do."

Sir John's hand was at his mouth. He stood up his full six feet two
and looked hard at his son, whose eyes were level with his own.
They were ideal representatives of their school.

"And what do you propose marrying upon? She, I understand, has
about eight hundred a year. I respect you too much to suspect any
foolish notions of love in a cottage."

Jack Meredith made no reply. He was entirely dependent upon his