"When will that be?"
"I had thought not till spring," said Matthew for himself. "But now it will be sooner, perhaps in a few weeks." That portion of his cheeks which remained uncovered glowed brightly. He had waited long to possess Millie and the delay was disturbing his regular and calm mental processes.
"Not so soon as that!" cried Ellen, in amazement.
"Yes," said Matthew firmly. "Father is gone and things are changed and the sooner we get used to the new ways the better."
"But Calvin will be here till April!"
"I shall continue to employ him. I have talked with him already."
Ellen's face paled.
"I thought I'd stay here with Mrs. Sassaman till September. Then we could have the house ready for you before I go."
Matthew changed his position, settling himself more firmly in his chair. Ellen would have to do as he said; God was blessing her by giving her no choice.