However, I will say no more on that subject
at present. It would scarcely be delicate until the reconciliation is
fully accomplished; then, indeed, perhaps I may endeavor, with fear and
trembling, to make myself understood. Only until then, I beg of you to
think well of me, and permit me to consider myself as not unworthy of a
humble place in your affections."
Old Goodwin shook him warmly by the hand, and his wife once more had
recourse to her pocket-handkerchief. "God bless you, Mr. Woodward!"
he exclaimed, "God bless you, I now see your worth, and know it; you
already have our good-will and affections, and, what is more, we feel
that you deserve them."
"I wish, my dear sir," said the other, "that Miss Goodwin understood me
as well as you and her respected mother."
"She does, Mr. Woodward," replied her father; "she does, and she will
too."
"I tremble, however," said Woodward, with a deep sigh; "but I will leave
my fate in your hands, or, I should rather say in the hands of Heaven."
Lunch was then announced, and they went down to the front parlor,
where it was laid out.
Pages:
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196
197
198
199
200
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212