"Why, he only buried his second wife last month! Father, he is as old as you are, and drunken, and has grandchildren of well-nigh my age.

I would obey you in all things, but never will I go to him alive." "And never shall he live to take you," muttered Christopher.
"What matter his years, daughter?
He is a sound man, and has no son, and should one be born to him, his will be the greatest heritage within three shires.

Moreover, I need his friendship, who have bitter enemies.
But enough of this.

Get you gone, Christopher, before worse befall you." "So be it, sir, I will go; but first, as an honest man and my father's friend, and, as I thought, my own, answer me one question.

Why have you changed your tune to me of late?
Am I not the same Christopher Harflete I was a year or two ago?
And have I done aught to lower me in the world's eye or in yours ?" "No, lad," answered the old knight bluntly; "but since you will have it, here it is.