Her uncle seems to be neglecting her for some precious scheme of his." "I wonder if, by any chance, you are in earnest, Austen ?" my brother asked.
"I should not be surprised," I admitted.
"It's an interesting subject, you know," Ralph continued gravely.
"Considering my accident, and other things which we need not allude to, I think we may take it for granted that there's no chance of my ever having an heir.

It's our duty to look ahead a little, you know, Austen.

There isn't any manner of doubt that some time between now and the next ten years you will have to take up my place.

I only hope you won't make such a hash of it." "Don't talk rubbish, Ralph!" I answered.
"It isn't rubbish," he said firmly.

"You go and talk to my doctor if you don't believe me.