"You wish to know what she has answered, sir," said Jasper to spare Stella making any reply. "With a joy I cannot express, I am able to say that she has answered 'Yes.'"
"Is that so, my dear?" murmured the old man.
Stella's head drooped.
"This—this—surprises me!" he said in a low voice. "But if it is so, if you love him, my dear, I will not say 'No.' Heaven bless you, Stella!" and his hand rested upon her head.
There was silence for a moment, then he started and held out his other hand to Jasper.
"You are a fortunate man, Jasper," he said. "I hope, I trust you will make her happy!"
Jasper's small eyes glistened.
"I will answer for it with my life," he said.