"I do not know him," interposed Alla.
"The women of our country choose their own husbands," abetted Ammon. "Moreover, missionaries do not marry. They cannot divide their attention between their work and a woman."
"Then you refuse her," repeated the king dully. The humor of the situation burst on him. "Alla, there is one man who will not have you."
With one look at Ammon, she tossed her head and swept out.
"She will make you regret it," remarked Lamoni with a twinkle in his eye, "No one ever offends Alla with impunity."
"I meant no offense to the princess. Under the circumstances what else could I say?"
"Since you have refused to become the king's son-in-law, may I ask what you propose to do?"
"No work is too humble for my new calling. Let me be your servant," he suggested with enthusiasm.
"The training of a king's son seldom fits a man for labor. What can you do?"
"I have herded cattle and I love the open."