 to
satisfy my grandfather. But I begged him as a personal favour to me not to let
any reason prevent him from accepting the place, if he really liked the
employment, and would not be giving up anything that was more profitable to him.
And he assured me he should like it of all things; - it would be a great step
forward for him in business, and it would enable him to do what he had long
wished to do - to give up working for Burge. He says he shall have plenty of
time to superintend a little business of his own, which he and Seth will carry
on, and will perhaps be able to enlarge by degrees. So he has agreed at last,
and I have arranged that he shall dine with the large tenants to-day; and I mean
to announce the appointment to them, and ask them to drink Adam's health. It's a
little drama I've got up in honour of my friend Adam. He's a fine fellow, and I
like the opportunity of letting people know that I think so.«
    »A drama in which friend Arthur piques himself on having a pretty part to
play,« said Mr. Irwine, smiling. But when he saw Arthur colour, he went on
relentingly, »My part, you know, is always that of the old Fogy who sees nothing
to admire in the young folks. I don't like to admit that I'm proud of my pupil
when he does graceful things. But I must play the amiable old gentleman for
once, and second your toast in honour of Adam. Has your grandfather yielded on
the other point too, and agreed to have a respectable man as steward?«
    »Oh, no,« said Arthur, rising from his chair with an air of impatience, and
walking along the room with his hands in his pockets. »He's got some project or
other about letting the Chase Farm, and bargaining for a supply of milk and
butter for the house. But I ask no questions about it - it makes me too angry. I
believe he means to do all the business himself, and have nothing in the shape
of a steward. It's amazing what energy he has, though.«
    »Well, we'll go to the ladies now,« said Mr. Irwine, rising too. »I want to
tell my mother what a splendid throne you've prepared for her under the
marquee.«
    »Yes, and we must be going to luncheon too,« said Arthur
