I love Morris very dearly.

I am his for whatever I may be worth; but I was my father's before Morris came into my life, and he has the first claim upon me." "What, then, do you propose ?" asked the Colonel curtly, for opposition and argument bred no meekness in his somewhat arbitrary breast.
"To be married on New Year's Day, wherever we are, if Morris wishes it and the state of my father's health makes it convenient.

If not, Uncle Richard, to wait till a more fitting season." Then she rose--for this conversation took place at Seaview--saying that it was time she should give her father his medicine.
Thus the project of an early marriage fell through; for, having once been driven into announcing her decision in terms so open and unmistakable, Mary would not go back on her word.
Morris, who was much disappointed, pleaded with her.

Her father also spoke upon the subject, but though the voice was the voice of Mr.
Porson, the arguments, she perceived, were the arguments of Colonel Monk.

Therefore she hardened her heart and put the matter by, refusing, indeed, to discuss it at any length.