He avowed his love, and proposed.
Aveline did not refuse. On the contrary, she accepted him upon the condition that he was to broach the subject to Mrs. Maitland.
The young engineer was in an ecstacy of delight at his success so far.
Soon after his encounter with Peace he bent his steps towards the widow’s cottage, and sought an interview with its mistress.
Mrs. Maitland shrewdly guessed the object of his visit.
She conducted him into the front parlour, closed the door, and sat herself down in one of the arm-chairs, motioning her visitor to be seated in another.
“My dear Mrs. Maitland,” said Gatliffe. “It is indeed a subject of most serious import, as regards my own happiness, which has occasioned me to seek you. For a long time past I have been attached to your daughter—possibly you might have guessed this.”
The widow nodded.
“Ah, as I supposed.”
“And Aveline?”