I will endeavour--now at least I will endeavour--to do my duty.

But do not urge me by questions, or appear to notice me if I am infirm." "But, father,--if we could comfort you ?" "Ah! if you could.

But, never mind, I will endeavour to shake off this depression.

And, Herbert, comfort your mother; do not let her think much of all this, if it can be helped." "But how can it be helped ?" "And tell her this: there is a matter that troubles my mind." "Is it about the property, father ?" "No--yes; it certainly is about the property in one sense." "Then do not heed it; we shall none of us heed it.

Who has so good a right to say so as I ?" "Bless you, my darling boy! But, Herbert, such things must be heeded--more or less, you know: but you may tell your mother this, and perhaps it may comfort her.