Very gradually, and very adroitly, seeming all the while as if he had not the slightest purpose to interest Mr.Markland in that particular direction, did Mr.Lyon create in his mind a strong confidence in the enlarged schemes for obtaining immense wealth in which he was now engaged.
And the tempter was equally successful in his efforts to awaken a desire in Mr.Markland to have his name stand out prominently, as one who had shown remarkable public spirit and great boldness in the prosecution of a difficult enterprise.
One, two, three days went by, and still Mr.Lyon was a lingerer at Woodbine Lodge; and during most of that time he was alone and in earnest conference with Mr.Markland.The evenings were always pleasant seasons in the family circle.

Fanny's voice had been well cultivated, and she sung with fine taste; and as Mr.Lyon was also a lover of music, and played and sung exquisitely, the two very naturally spent a portion of their time at the piano.

If it crossed the father's mind that an attachment might spring up between them, it did not disturb his feelings.
At the end of a week Mr.Lyon found it necessary to tear himself away from the little paradise into which he had been so unexpectedly introduced.

Every day that he lingered there diminished the ardour of his ambition, or robbed of some charm the bright ideal he had worshipped.

And so he broke the silken bonds that wove themselves around him, at first light as gossamer, but now strong as twisted cords.
Mr.Markland accompanied him to the city, and did not return home until late in the evening.