I would rather double your income if I saw you marry any one that we could name here." "I have enough as it is, if I may only be allowed to know that it will not be capriciously withdrawn." The archdeacon filled his glass unconsciously, and sipped his wine, while he thought what further he might say.

Perhaps it might be better that he should say nothing further at the present moment.

The major, however, was indiscreet, and pushed the question.

"May I understand, sir, that your threat is withdrawn, and that my income is secure ?" "What, if you marry this girl ?" "Yes, sir; will my income be continued to me if I marry Miss Crawley ?" "No, it will not." Then the father got up hastily, pushed the decanter back angrily from his hand, and without saying another word walked away into the drawing-room.

That evening at the rectory was very gloomy.