Even as I hurried up the steps the tall form of none other than Mr.Daniel Churchill appeared to greet me.

I extended my hand.

He did not notice it.

I began to speak.

He bade me pause.
"To what may I attribute this visit, Mr.Trist ?" he asked me, with dignity.
"Since you ask me, and seem not to know," I replied, "I may say that I am here to marry your daughter, Miss Elisabeth! I presume that the minister of the gospel is already here ?" "The minister is here," he answered.