Mrs. Faber did not allow her deep disappointment to be seen. Henry was always sacrificing himself, she must follow his example. Only Toney noted the sad look in her eyes.
"Indeed our old Martha is far more necessary to my husband than I am. She cooks beautifully."
"She must be rather wasted at your Vicarage. However, of course, Anne Faber, if you like an extra holiday pray stay. Toney will be of no use this week, and if Miss Grossman does not get better she must go home."
"Certainly I will stay," and she smiled across to Toney, who nodded her satisfaction.
"You all covered yourselves with glory I can tell you. Bully! wasn't it?"
"Well, so it was, but when you want to forsake the world and become one of St. Francis' brethren, uncle, I'm sure he'll take you. He told one of the rich young men who offered themselves, to 'serve the brethren,' and I know you did that yesterday, so you were in the path of perfection. Isn't that an awfully nice name?"
"I don't think that sort of life would suit me," said Sir Evas smiling. "Well, I shall go and meet your secretary this morning, Toney, whilst you talk to Mr. Staines."
Toney led the way to her new sitting-room which did not feel half so homely to her as the little sitting-room at the top of the house, but she would not let her uncle see this. Mr. Staines sat down, and Toney dropped into a chair and put her elbows on the writing table, after she had thrown down a heap of letters.
"Ouf! Look at those, Mr. Staines; to think they will come every morning."
"The new secretary will sift these for you, Miss Whitburn."
"Poor fellow! Well, what I want to say is this. Have you made it quite right about Aunt Dove's money? Will two thousand a year make a difference to her?"
"I can't cost her that in food, can I? though I have a good appetite."
"But I want you to arrange about the capital and give it to her entirely."
"Is that wise? Lady Dove might die and----"
"I am quite sure I want that: Uncle Evas would have it if she died, and it will be off my mind. My General would like it, I think. Ouf! that will be some of it disposed of, won't it?"
Mr. Staines smiled. This was not the usual tone of his rich clients.
"That's all now, Mr. Staines, and I want your firm well paid for all your trouble, so that I shan't mind bothering you."