'I have nothing to do with love or marriage.' The Elder Brother laid aside his Book of Rules.

'If you are afflicted with an hereditary malady,' he said, 'the doctor from the town will examine you, and report to us.' She answered, 'I have no hereditary malady.' The Elder Brother took up his book again.

'In due course of time, my dear, the Council will decide for you whether you are to love and marry or not.' And he read the Rules.

She sat down again, and hid her face in her hands, and never moved or spoke until he had done.

The regular questions followed.