You need have no doubt of that." A letter with an Indian post-mark, which arrived that same evening, served for the present, at least, to divert the thoughts of Roger as well as of his tutor to other channels.
The letter was from Captain Oliphant addressed to Mrs Ingleton.
"My very dear cousin," it read, "need I say with what deep sympathy I received the news of our dear Roger's sudden call?
At this great distance, blows of this kind fall with cruel heaviness, and I assure you I felt crushed as I realised that I should no more grasp the hand of one of the noblest men it has been my privilege to call by the name of friend.

If my loss is so great, what must _yours_ be?
I dare not think of it! I was truly touched by our dear one's thought of me in desiring that I should join you in the care of his orphaned boy.

I regard this dying wish as a sacred trust put upon me, which gratitude and love alike require that I should accept.

Ere this letter reaches you, I shall myself be nearing England.

The provision our dear Roger has made has emboldened me to resign my commission, so that I may devote my whole time without distraction to my new charge.