By nature a martinet and strict disciplinarian, im-
patient, intolerant of argument, accustomed to rule

6



THE ARGYLE CASE

and to be obeyed without question, he had resented
his son's independence of spirit, and interpreted it
rightly or wrongly as wilful defiance of his wishes and
orders. There were times when he had wished
things might be otherwise, when he could have
clasped his son to his bosom and taken pride in
planning out his future, but this last disobedience
he could not forgive. It was unpardonable. It had
completely shattered the one illusion he had left.
If a shred of emotion had been excited in his breast
at the mention of his dead wife, he managed to con-
ceal it. His voice was hard and unyielding as ever
as he asked:

"Where are you going?'*

"I told you — out West.''

"You have no means."

"No — that's why I came to you."

The old man shook his head.
"No, sir — not a cent. I couldn't if I would. That
money is tied up until you reach the age of thirty.
