This apropos remark by way of a female diversion.
“Then let me say Lucy to-day, for perhaps I shall never say that, or anything that is sweet to say again. Lucy, you know what I came for?”
“Oh, yes, to receive my congratulations.”
“More than that, a great deal—to ask you to go halves in the Rajah.”
Lucy's eyebrows demanded an explanation.
“She is worth two thousand a year to her commander; and that is too much for a bachelor.”
Lucy colored and smiled. “Why, it is only just enough for bachelors to live upon.”
“It is too much for me alone under the circumstances,” said David, gravely; and there was a little silence.
“Lucy, I love you. With you the Rajah would be a godsend. She will help me keep you in the company you have been used to, and were made to brighten and adorn; but without you I cannot take her from your hand, and, to speak plain, I won't.”
“Oh, Mr. Dodd!”