He did not dislike Fairfax Cary; he thought indeed that the young man's spirit, bearing, and partisanship were admirable.

His smile was for the thought that had lightened through his mind: "If in after years I could have a son like that!" He wanted children; he wanted a son.

Rand sighed.
The day had been vexatious, and there were heavy questions yet to settle before the evening closed.

After all, what was the use, since Jacqueline cared nothing for baubles, and there was no child! Better live out his days at Roselands, a farmer and a country lawyer! He shook off the weight, summoned all his household troop of thoughts, and went on homewards through the falling snow..