The people of Graustark will see to
it that you die before your time."
"Bosh!" said Mr. Blithers. "Mind if I smoke?" He took out a cigar and
began searching for matches.
"No," she said, "I don't mind. It is a sign that you need something
to steady your nerves. I know you, Will Blithers. You don't want to
smoke. You want to gain a few minutes of time, that's all."
He lit a cigar. "Right you are," was his unexpected admission. "I
wonder if you really have the right idea about this business. What
objection could any one have to a poor, tired old man sitting in
front of his daughter's fireside and--and playing with her kiddies?
It seems to me that--"
"You will never be a tired old man, that's the trouble," she said,
instantly touched.
"Oh, yes, I will," said he slowly. "I'm rather looking forward to it,
too."
"It will be much nicer to have the kiddies come to your own fireside,
Will. I used to enjoy nothing better than going to spend a few days
with my grandfather."
"But what's the use of going to all this trouble and expense if we
are not to enjoy some of the fruits?" he protested, making a
determined stand.
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