Well, now, this was coming into too close quarters with me! People, generally, don't like to tell their love stories to everybody that may think fit to ask about them, and it was so with me.

But, after blushing awhile and recovering myself, I told her that I did not want a wife.

She then asked me, if I did not think something of Eliza.

I told her that I did.

She then said that if I wished to marry Eliza, she would purchase her if she could.
I gave but little encouragement to this proposition, as I was determined to make another trial to get my liberty, and I knew that if I should have a wife, I should not be willing to leave her behind; and if I should attempt to bring her with me, the chances would be difficult for success.