At the same time let me assure you of my sincere gratitude for your generous offer." "I will not hear of your objections, my good friend," said the doctor; "it is my desire that you allow me to adopt the boy, if only in part.
My daughter will shortly be married, as you are aware, and then I shall be left alone.

I possess ample means, and would not accept a dollar in return for the expenses incurred for the child, while his presence will be a source of happiness to me.

Already I have formed an attachment for him, and it will only be gratifying my sincere wish if you will give your consent.

Believe me, I do not ask it for the purpose of laying you under any obligations, or from any charitable motive, but from an earnest desire for him to remain with me.

Let me hope that you will give your consent." "I scarcely know what to say," answered Alfred, "for while I feel a natural delicacy in giving my consent, my heart tells me that the child will be far more comfortable than if he were at the convent." "Why then do you not give your consent in the same spirit the offer is made," observed the doctor.