I can call them in a moment,' said Nicholas.
'Oh--I see it is--Mr.Nicholas Long,' said Mr.Bealand, and turning again to Christine, 'Does your father know of this ?' 'Is it necessary that I should answer that question, Mr.Bealand ?' 'I am afraid it is--highly necessary.' Christine began to look concerned.
'Where is the licence ?' the rector asked; 'since there have been no banns.' Nicholas produced it, Mr.Bealand read it, an operation which occupied him several minutes--or at least he made it appear so; till Christine said impatiently, 'We are quite ready, Mr.Bealand.

Will you proceed?
Mr.Long has to take a journey of a great many miles to-day.' 'And you ?' 'No.

I remain.' Mr.Bealand assumed firmness.

'There is something wrong in this,' he said.

'I cannot marry you without your father's presence.' 'But have you a right to refuse us ?' interposed Nicholas.