Not otherwise to the hall of Hades dim
He fares, than if some summer eventide
A Message, not unlooked for, came to him;
Bidding him rise up presently, and ride
Some few hours’ journey, to a friendly home.”
“There is nothing to fear in such a death.”
“Nothing at all. Last week when Cornelia and I passed his house, he was leaning on the garden gate, and he spoke pleasantly to her and told her she was a ‘bonnie lassie.’ Where is Cornelia?”
“In her room. John, she went to Duyckinck’s this morning for me, and George Hyde met her again, and they took a walk together on the Battery. It was near the noon hour when she returned.”
“She told you about it?”
“Oh yes, and without inquiry.”
“Very good. I must look after that young fellow.” But he said the words without much care, and Mrs. Moran was not satisfied.
“Then you do not disapprove the meeting, John?” she asked.
“Yes, I do. I disapprove of any young man meeting my daughter every time she goes out. Cornelia is too young for lovers, and it is not desirable that she should have attentions from young men who have no intentions. I do not want her to be what is called a belle. Certainly not.”
“But the young men do not think her too young to be loved. I can see that Rem Van Ariens is very fond of her.”