Chapter 9

JOHN INTERFERES IN HARRY'S AFFAIRS

Gamblers are reckless men, always living between ebb and flow.

The germ of every sin, is the reflection, whether it be possible.

After John had recovered from the shock which the knowledge of Lugur's
interference in the financial affairs of his brother had given him, he
drew closer to his sister and took her hand and she said anxiously,
"John, what can I do to help you in getting Harry into the right way? I
know and feel that all is at present just as it should _not_ be. I will
do whatever you advise." She was not weeping, but her face was white and
resolute and her eyes shone with the hope that had entered her heart.

"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