But it comes to very much the same thing; there's to be no restraint on her discretion in using it.' 'She might give her affectionate parent a hundred or so now and then, if she chose ?' 'If she chose.' Scawthorne began a detailed inquiry into the humanitarian projects of which Joseph had given but a rude and contemptuous explanation.

The finer qualities of his mind enabled him to see the matter in quite a different light from that in which it presented itself to Jane's father; he had once or twice had an opportunity of observing Michael Snowdon at the office, and could realise in a measure the character which directed its energies to such an ideal aim.

Concerning Jane he asked many questions; then the conversation turned once more to Sidney Kirkwood.
'I wish he'd married his old sweetheart,' observed Joseph, watching the other's face.
'Who was that ?' 'A girl called Clara Hewett.' Their looks met.

Scawthorne, in spite of habitual self-command, betrayed an extreme surprise.
'I wonder what's become of her ?' continued Joseph, still observing his companion, and speaking with unmistakable significance.
'Just tell me something about this,' said Scawthorne peremptorily.
Joseph complied, and ended his story with a few more hints.
'I never saw her myself--at least I can't be sure that I did.

There was somebody of the same name--Clara--a friend of Polkenhorne's wife.' Scawthorne appeared to pay no attention; he mused with a wrinkled brow.
'If only I could put something between Kirkwood and the girl,' remarked Joseph, as if absently.