Is that so ?" "Yes, sir." "You have never given me any intimation." Little colored still more.

He replied, with some hesitation, "Why, sir, you see I was brought up amongst workmen, and they court the girl first, and make sure of her, before they trouble the parents; and, besides, it was not ripe for your eye yet." "Why not ?" "Because I'm no match for Miss Carden.

But I hope to be, some day." "And she is to wait for you till then ?" "She says she will." "Well, Mr.Little, this is a delicate matter; but you are a straightforward man, I see, and it is the best way.

Now I must do my duty as a parent, and I am afraid I shall not be able to do that without mortifying you a little; but believe me, it is not from any dislike or disrespect to you, but only because it IS my duty." "I am much obliged to you, sir; and I'll bear more from you than I would from any other man.

You are her father, and I hope you'll be mine one day." "Well, then, Mr.Little, I always thought my daughter would marry a gentleman in this neighborhood, who has paid her great attention for years, and is a very suitable match for her.