"Tell me," she continued, "who is she?
Where have you seen her?
What is she like ?" "She is so beautiful, mother," he said, "that I am sure you would love her; she is as fair and sweet as she is modest and true.

I met her in the gardens some weeks ago, and I have met her every day since." Lord and Lady Earle exchanged a glance of dismay which did not escape Ronald.
"Why have you not told us of this before ?" asked his father, angrily.
"I asked her to be my wife while you were from home," replied Ronald.
"She promised and I have only been waiting until our guests left us and you had more time." "Is it to see Dora Thorne that you have been out so constantly ?" asked Lady Earle.
"Yes, I could not let a day pass without seeing her," he replied; "it would be like a day without sunshine." "Does any one else know of this folly ?" asked Lord Earle, angrily.
"No, you may be quite sure, father, I should tell you before I told any one else," replied Ronald.
They looked at him in silent dismay, vexed and amazed at what he had done--irritated at his utter folly, yet forced to admire his honor, his courage, his truth.

Both felt that some sons would have carefully concealed such a love affair from them.

They were proud of his candor and integrity, although deploring his folly.
"Tell us all about it, Ronald," said Lady Earle.
Without the least hesitation, Ronald told them every word; and despite their vexation, neither could help smiling--it was such a pretty story--a romance, all sunshine, smiles, tears, and flowers.

Lord Earle's face cleared as he listened, and he laid one hand on his boy's shoulder.
"Ronald," said he, "we shall disagree about your love; but remember, I do full justice to your truth.