If you had been enamoured of a poor girl, I should have said: it is rather early to think of marriage, but if it be God's will, take her! Work and fight your way through the world where there is room enough for every one.

The lass, too, is used to deprivation, and you are also.

She will be content with little.

She can sew, she will do your cooking for you, and, if need be, your washing likewise! She can make one penny go as far as two.

When there is a lot to do she will sing to make the work lighter, and when your supper is slender, her good humour and her loving embraces will make it more.