"If you do not intend to come back at all," continued the father, "that
would simplify matters. I could then make room for a Harvard graduate to
study with us."
Quincy reflected. He had been taught by his father not to give a
positive answer to any question on the spur of the moment, if more time
could be taken, as well as not, for consideration. So, after a few
moments of thought, Quincy said, "I will write you in the course of ten
days or a fortnight, and give you a positive answer."
"That will be entirely satisfactory," answered his father. "As you are
going out, will you kindly tell Mr. Crowninshield that I wish to consult
with him?"
Quincy knew that the interview had expired by limitation. He went home,
but found that his mother and sisters were out riding.
"They will return in time for dinner," said Delia, the parlor maid.
Quincy went into the parlor and opened the grand piano. He sat down
before it, touched a few of the keys casually, then sang, with great
expression, the song by J.R. Thomas entitled "Pleasant Memories." He
next wandered into the library, and took down and glanced at several
books that he had devoured with avidity when a boy of sixteen.
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