Germaine was frightened at his insistance. What could it mean?
"What possible objection can you have to it?" continued the father; "I can see none whatever. You are young, you are attractive, you are rich. Little Bessie, of course, would be no hindrance; you could look after her just as well if you were married——"
"But, father, before I can marry, I must find a husband, and no one has proposed to me yet."
"There you are mistaken. This very morning, a young gentleman that I respect and admire, asked my permission to address you. It was a great and agreeable surprise. He is in every respect worthy of you. When I tell you his name—"
"Do not name him, dear father. I am obliged to refuse his offer."
"But why, my dear child? You must give me some reason. Can it be possible," he continued tenderly, "that you love another?"
Germaine buried her face in her hands, as she replied "Yes."
Laviguerie smiled: "Why did you not tell me long ago? You were not afraid of my refusal, surely. I am sure that your heart has chosen well, and I consent beforehand to any thing that is for your happiness. Tell me his name, dear child."
Germaine grew paler still. "I can never marry him, father."
"He does not return your affection?"