And even during this year there had been periods of hope, for he had not finally made up his mind till but a short time before he had put it in practice.

No doubt he was fond of his niece in accordance with his own capability for fondness.

He would caress her and stroke her hair, and took delight in having her near to him.

And of true love for such a girl his heart was quite capable.

He was a good-natured, fearless, but not a selfish man, to whom the fate in life of this poor girl was a matter of real concern.
And his eldest son, who was by no means good-natured, had something of the same nature.