He was gloomy and silent all the evening.
Next morning, directly after breakfast, his mother got him, and implored him not to waste his youth any longer.
“The man will never die,” said she: “he will wear you out. You have great energy and courage; but you have not a woman's humble patience, to go on, year after year, waiting for an event you can not hasten by a single moment. Do you not see it is hopeless? End your misery by one brave plunge. Speak to dear Jael.”
“I can't—I can't!”
“Then let me.”
“Will it make you happy?”
“Very happy. Nothing else can.”
“Will it make her happy?”
“As happy as a queen.”
“She deserves a better fate.”