 of the understanding between Michael
and Kirkwood. The old man still hesitated to break the news to Jane, saying to
himself that it was better for Sidney to prepare her by the change in his
behaviour.
    »Of altering things?« Jane repeated, under her breath.
    »It seems to me wrong - wrong to both of you,« Joseph pursued, in a pathetic
voice. »I can't help noticing my child's looks. I know she isn't what she used
to be, poor little girl! And I know Kirkwood isn't what he used to be. It's very
hard, and I feel for you - for both of you.«
    Jane sat motionless, not daring to lift her eyes, scarcely daring to
breathe.
    »Janey.«
    »Yes, father.«
    »I wonder whether I'm doing wrong to your grandfather in speaking to you
confidentially like this? I can't believe he notices things as I do; he'd never
wish you to be unhappy.«
    »But I don't quite understand, father. What do you mean about Mr. Kirkwood?
Why should he -«
    The impulse failed her. A fear which she had harboured for many weary days
was being confirmed and she could not ask directly for the word that would kill
hope.
    »Have I a right to tell you? I thought perhaps you understood.«
    »As you have gone so far, I think you must explain. I don't see how you can
be doing wrong.«
    »Poor Kirkwood! You see, he's in such a delicate position, my dear. I think
myself that he's acting rather strangely, after everything; but it's - it's your
money, Jane. He doesn't think he ought to ask you to marry him, under the
circumstances.«
    She trembled.
    »Now who should stand by you, in a case like this, if not your own father?
Of course he can't say a word to you himself; and of course you can't say a word
to him; and altogether it's a pitiful business.«
    Jane shrank from discussing such a topic with her father. Her next words
were uttered with difficulty.
    »But the money isn't my own - it'll never be my own. He - Mr. Kirkwood knows
that.«
    »He does, to be sure. But it makes no difference. He has told your
grandfather, my love, that - that the
