195
When we were strolling back to the hotel Dick said to me:—
"Cheer up, old fellow! You need'nt be the least bit downhearted. Go soon and see Joyce. He will not stand in the girl's way, you may be sure. He is a good fellow, and loves Norah dearly—who could help it!" He stopped for a moment here, and choked a great sob, but went on bravely:—
"It is only like her to be willing to sacrifice her own happiness; but she must not be let do that. Settle the matter soon! Go to-morrow to see Joyce. I shall go up to Knocknacar instead of working with Murdock; it will leave the coast clear for you." Then we went into the hotel; and I felt as if a great weight had been removed.
When I was undressing I heard a knock. "Come in," I called, and Dick entered. Dear old fellow! I could see that he had been wrestling with himself, and had won. His eyes were red, but there was a noble manliness about him which was beyond description.
