'Is it about Ruth?' she asks softly.
'Yes, yes,' he answers in a tone of eager wonder. 'How did you know?'
She smiles sweetly on him.
'I have known it for a long time, Charley. Have you spoken to her?'
'Yes; and this is the happiest day I have ever known. O, mother, she loves me! She gave me permission to ask you for her.'
Mrs. Silver calls her husband to her side.
'Charley has come to ask for Ruth, my dear.'
'I am glad of it. Where is Ruth?'
'I will bring her,' says Charley, trembling with happiness.
'Did I not tell you, my dear?' Mrs. Silver asks of her husband.