He realized, however, that he had a slightly difficult task before him.
"You seem to take the news rather badly, father," said the girl.
Deringham smiled deprecatingly.

"I have not been quite so well lately, and it upset me a trifle," said he.

"I have a regard for our Canadian kinsman and have been inclined to fancy that you shared it with me." "Of course," said the girl indifferently.

"Mr.Alton has been especially kind to us." "Yes," said Deringham.

"Mr.Seaforth must also be very helpless up there alone, with his comrade seriously ill.