You told me
that you thought the world and all of him and that he did of you. That's
enough--or ought to be. But your brother says you wrote him two days ago
and he ain't been near you."
"I misdirected the letter. He didn't receive it."
"Um-hm. I see. That would explain."
"Of course it would. That MUST be the reason."
"Yes, seem's if it must."
"It is. What right have you to doubt it? Oh, how can you think such
things? Can you suppose the man I am to marry is so despicable--so MEAN
as to--as to--I'm ashamed to say it. Why do you presume that money has
any part in our engagement? Such trouble as mine only makes it more
binding. Do you suppose if HE were poor as--as I am, that I would desert
HIM? You know I wouldn't. I should be glad--yes, almost happy, because
then I could show him--could--"
Her voice failed her. She put her handkerchief to her eyes for an
instant and then snatched it away and faced them, her head erect. The
pride in her face was reflected in Captain Elisha's as he regarded her.
"No, no," he said gently, "I never supposed you'd act but in one way,
Caroline. I knew YOU. And, as Steve'll tell you, I said to him almost
the same words you've been sayin'. If Malcolm's what he'd ought to be,
I said, he'll be glad of the chance to prove how much he cares for your
sister.
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