“As I traveled to London, Lucy, I thought of many ways and means, but none of them stood the test of their probable ultimate results; and as I entered my hotel I let them slip from me as useless.  Then I saw a gentleman writing his name in the registry book, and I knew it was Matthew Ramsby.  As soon as I saw him the plan for Harry’s safety came to me in a flash of light and conviction.  So I went and spoke to him and we had dinner together.  And I asked him if he was ever coming to Yoden to live, and he said, ’No, it is too far from my hunt and from the races I like best.’  Then I offered to rent the place, and he was delighted.  I made very favorable terms, and Harry must go there with you and your dear children.  Are you willing?”

“O John!  It would be like a home in Paradise.  And Harry would be safe if he was under your influence.”

“You know, Lucy, what Jane’s mother has done with Harlow House.  Yoden can be made far prettier and far more profitable.  You may raise any amount of poultry and on the wold there is a fine run for ducks and geese.  I will see that you have cows and a good riding-horse for Harry and a little carriage of some kind for yourself and the children.”

“I shall soon have all these pleasant things at my finger ends.  O John!”

“But you must have a good farmer to look after the cattle and horses, the meadowland and the grain-land and also the garden and orchard must be attended to.  Oh, I can see how busy and happy you will all be!  And, Lucy, you must use all your influence to get Harry out of London.”

“Harry will go gladly, but how can he be employed?  He will soon be weary of doing nothing.”

“I have thought of that.  What is your advice on this subject, Lucy?”

“He is tired of painting, and he has let his musical business fall away a great deal lately.  He does not keep in practice and in touch with the men of his profession.  He has been talking to me about writing a novel.  I am sure he has all the material he wants.  Do not smile, John.  It might be a good thing even if it was a failure.  It would keep him at home.”

“So it would, Lucy.  And Harry always liked a farm.  He loves the land.  He used to trouble mother meddling in the management of Hatton until he got plainly told to mind his own business.”

“Well, then, John, we will let him manage Yoden land, and encourage him to write a book, and he need not give up his music.  He has always been prominent in the Leeds musical festivals and Mr. Sullivan insists on Harry’s solo wherever he leads.”

“You are right, Lucy.  In Hatton Harry used to direct all our musical entertainments and he liked to do so.  Men and women will be delighted to have him back.”

“And he was the idol of the athletic club.  I have heard him talk about that very often.  O John, I can see Harry’s salvation.  I have been very anxious, but I knew it would come.  I will work joyfully with you in every way to help it forward.”