This very evening I will tell my father, and ask his consent to our marriage.

My mother is sure to love you--she is so kind and gracious to every one.
Do not tremble, my darling; neither Ralph Holt nor any one else shall take you from me." She was soon comforted! There was no bound or limit to her faith in Ronald Earle.
"Go home now," he said, "and tomorrow my father himself shall see you.
I will teach that young farmer his place.

No more tears, Dora--our troubles will end tonight." He went with her down the broad walk, and then returned to the Hall.
He walked very proudly, with his gallant head erect, saying to himself that this was a free country and he could do what he liked; but for all that his heart beat loudly when he entered the drawing room and found Lord and Lady Earle.

They looked up smilingly at him, all unconscious that their beloved son, the heir of Earlescourt, was there to ask permission to marry the lodge keeper's daughter..