No argument would convince her that it was not safer for her son, who had been brought up in such Arcadian simplicity, to continue believing himself what he appeared to be, than to be dazzled by the knowledge that he was the chosen heir of the Earl of Cairnforth.
So, somewhat against his judgment, the earl yielded.
All winter and spring things went on peacefully in the little peninsula, which was now being grasped tightly by the strong arm of encroaching civilization.

Acre after acre of moorland disappeared, and became houses, gardens, green-houses, the feu-rents of which made the estate of Cairnforth more valuable every year.
"That young man of yours will have enough on his hands one day," the earl said to Helen.

"He lives an easy life now, and little thinks what hard work he is coming to.

As Mr.Menteith once told me, the owner of Cairnforth has no sinecure, nor will have for the next quarter of a century." "You expect a busy life, then ?" "Yes; and I must have that boy to help me--till he comes to his own.
But, Helen, after that time, you must not let him be idle.

The richest man should work, if he can.