"
"What thing, papa?" Of course she knew very well what the thing
was.
"It is time for you to think of settling in life, Mary. I never
would put it into a girl's head that she ought to worry herself
about getting a husband unless the opportunity seemed to come in
her way. Young women should be quiet and wait till they're sought
after. But here is a young man seeking you whom we all like and
approve. A good house is a very good thing when it's fairly come
by."
"Yes, papa."
"And so is a full house. A girl shouldn't run after money, but
plenty is a great comfort in this world when it can be had without
blushing for."
"Yes, papa."
"And so is an honest man's love. I don't like to see any girl
wearying after some fellow to be always fal-lalling with her. A
good girl will be able to be happy and contented without that. But
a lone life is a poor life, and a good husband is about the best
blessing that a young woman can have." To this proposition Mary
perhaps agreed in her own mind but she gave no spoken assent. "Now
this young man that is wanting to marry you has got all these
things, and as far as I can judge with my experience in the world,
is as likely to make a good husband as any one I know." He paused
for an answer but Mary could only lean close upon his arm and be
silent. "Have you anything to say about it, my dear? You see it has
been going on now a long time, and of course he'll look to have it
decided.
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