'I'll go to him.'
Marian entered the study. Her father was not in his place at the
writing-table, nor yet seated in the chair which he used when he
had leisure to draw up to the fireside; he sat in front of one of
the bookcases, bent forward as if seeking a volume, but his chin
was propped upon his hand, and he had maintained this position
for a long time. He did not immediately move. When he raised his
head Marian saw that he looked older, and she noticed--or fancied
she did--that there was some unfamiliar peculiarity about his
eyes.
'I am obliged to you for coming,' he began with distant
formality. 'Since I saw you last I have learnt something which
makes a change in my position and prospects, and it is necessary
to speak on the subject. I won't detain you more than a few
minutes.'
He coughed, and seemed to consider his next words.
'Perhaps I needn't repeat what I have told your mother. You have
learnt it from her, I dare say.'
'Yes, with much grief.'
'Thank you, but we will leave aside that aspect of the matter.
For a few more months I may be able to pursue my ordinary work,
but before long I shall certainly be disabled from earning my
livelihood by literature.
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