My ship's been drydocked and overhauled and she's in New York now loadin' for Manila.

It's a long vy'age, even if I come back direct, which ain't likely.

So I may not see the old town again for a couple of years.

Take care of yourself, won't you?
Good men, especially ministers, are scurse, and from what I hear about you I cal'late Trumet needs you." "When are you going ?" "Last of next week, most likely." "Will you--shall you go alone?
Are you to be--to be--" "Married?
No.

Grace and I have talked it over and we've agreed it's best to wait till I come back.