To begin with, I can't support a wife, and marriage hasn't much charm for me.

Then I think she's clever enough to make her mark, and will stick to her occupation until she does, if she gets rid of this foolish notion of looking for the ore." "I see," said Scott, with some dryness.

"You feel sorry for the girl and want to save her from getting like Strange?
Well, it's a chivalrous object; but there's a thing you don't seem to have thought of yet.
Prospecting a big belt of country is a long job, and if you're away much of the summer, how are you going to keep your engagement with me ?" "I have thought of it," Thirlwell replied.

"It's awkward--" Scott smiled at his embarrassment.

"Well, I'll let you go.