IN THE SHADOW
of the other, partly self-contempt for deigning to discuss the matter at all, and a thorough inward conviction of the indisputability of his own views. Manning was satisfied that he knew as much as was to be known on the subject from theory and practice, education and life-long association. He acknowledged the virtues of the negro race just as he knew to the ounce their limitations; for him to allow himself to be led into an argument regarding a subject on which he was so thoroughly informed was futile and a waste of time.
Possibly the baronet, with his quick intuition, perceived something of this, for he did not pursue the topic; instead, he followed Manning's eyes to Virginia. The young man was regarding his sister with the proud satisfaction which in a cold nature so strongly supplements affection.
"She is a beautiful girl," said Sir Henry, "and as good as she is beautiful. They are inseparable, those two—" he added, partly to himself.
"Would you like to have them marry?" asked Manning with the blunt directness which was one of his most subtle traits.
Sir Henry started a trifle, then looked at Manning with a startled expression—such an expression as one might wear at hearing another voice a present thought. A tinge of color showed in his lean face.
"Eh, I—I have—of course; I will not say that the idea has not occurred to me, Manning, yet it is each time as difficult for me to realize that the two children have grown up—are at a marriageable age—" He was silent; both men remained for several moments occupied with their thoughts. Sir Henry smoked rapidly, nerv-
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