But indulgence in a hobby is not incompatible with the love of a fireside, and the blessings of _dulce domum_, to say nothing of the _placens uxor_, who is the only true goddess of the hearth.

Yes, dear friend, I confess that I should like--that I positively long--to marry.

That is why, paradoxical as it may appear, I congratulate myself on not being married already.

But, of course, in all such cases, the man himself is not the only factor to be reckoned with.

The lady must be found, and the lady's consent obtained.