renewal of her hopes, coupled with fear also that he might not fit in
with his new life, and--she could say it now--do something unbearable.
Well, he had done nothing unworthy of their name; had acted, on the
whole, sensibly; and she had not been greatly surprised at certain little
oddnesses, such as the tent in the grounds, an impossible deer-hunt, and
some unusual village charities and innovations on the estate. Nor did
she object to Brillon, though he had sometimes thrown servants'-hall into
disorder, and had caused the stablemen and the footmen to fight. His
ear-rings and hair were startling, but they were not important. Gaston
had been admired by the hunting-field--of which they were glad, for it
was a test of popularity. She saw that most people liked him. Lord
Dunfolly and Admiral Highburn were enthusiastic. For her own part, she
was proud and grateful. She could enjoy every grain of comfort he gave
them; and she was thankful to make up to Robert's son what Robert himself
had lost--poor boy--poor boy!

Her feelings were deep, strong, and sincere. Her grandson had come,
strong, individual, considerate, and had moved the tender courses of her
nature. At this moment Gaston had his first deep feeling of
responsibility.

"My dear," she said at last, "people in our position have important
duties. Here is a large estate. Am I not clear? You will never be
quite part of this life till you bring a wife here. That will give you a
sense of responsibility. You will wake up to many things then. Will you
not marry? There is Delia Gasgoyne. Your grandfather and I would be so
glad. She is worthy in every way, and she likes you. She is a good
girl. She has never frittered her heart away; and she would make you
proud of her."