And if there were to be any son-in-law why should not he have as good a chance as any other?
When they should learn how constantly the girl's image had been present to his mind, so far away, during so many years, under such hard circumstances would not that recommend him to them?
Had he not proved himself to be steady, industrious, and a good man of business?
In regard to position and fortune was he not such as a father would desire for his daughter?
Having lost his claim to Folking, had he not regained it;--and in doing so had he not shown himself to be something much more than merely the heir to Folking?
An immediate income would, of course, be necessary;--but there was money enough.

He would ask the old man for nothing.

Reports said that though the old man had been generous to his own sons, still he was fond of money.

He should have the opportunity of bestowing his daughter in marriage without being asked for a shilling.
And then John Caldigate bethought himself with some pride that he could make a proper settlement on his wife without burdening the estate at Folking with any dowers.

But of what use would be all this if he could not get at the girl to tell her that he loved her?
He might, indeed, get at the father and tell his purpose plainly and honestly.