And even if I did remain at the Fort as his wife, I still could not look after you." "Humph! I am beginning to see what you are driving at.

But I can't forget your mother, my dear.

She was a good wife to me." "Still," said Lucy coaxingly, and becoming more and more the champion of Mrs.Jasher, "you cannot manage this large house by yourself.

I do not like to leave you in the hands of servants when I marry.

Mrs.Jasher is very domesticated and--" "And would make a good housekeeper.