‘Mamma, I think that is unkind.’

’And I shall think it very unkind if you take upon yourself to abuse people who are able and willing to set poor Felix on his legs.  A word from you might undo all that we are doing.’

‘What word?’

’What word?  Any word!  If you have any influence with your brother you should use it in inducing him to hurry this on.  I am sure the girl is willing enough.  She did refer him to her father.’

‘Then why does he not go to Mr Melmotte?’

’I suppose he is delicate about it on the score of money.  If Roger could only let it be understood that Felix is the heir to this place, and that some day he will be Sir Felix Carbury...