For a moment he gazed in speechless astonishment. “It seems to me, Mr. Delavan,” he presently found tongue to say, “that you are being rather precipitate. Have you spoken to Rhoda?”
“I have, sir. She asks for time to make sure of herself. But she does not leave me without hope. You must remember, sir, that we knew each other when we were children.”
“Oh, yes, for a few weeks, I believe! And you’ve been in each other’s company a few hours since! Do you think that is long enough for you to acquire such knowledge of each other as you ought to have before venturing upon this important step?”
“It has been long enough, sir, for me to discover that she has a sweet and noble nature and to know that I love her. And I do not ask from her at present any definite promise. I ask only for your permission to endeavor to win her love and her promise as soon as possible. You know who I am and I am sure you will acquit me of presumption, sir, if I remind you that my name is an honored one in my state and neighborhood. I trust you will have any inquiries made that you like concerning my personal character, and I shall be happy to give you at any time an account of my financial affairs, in order that you may satisfy yourself I can give your daughter a home and a position such as she deserves.”
“Your attitude is that of an honorable man, Mr. Delavan, and if the matter goes on I shall take advantage of your offer.”
Dr. Ware arose and began moving back and forth across the room. “But you are a slaveholder, I believe. Do you think it wise for two people to marry who hold such opposing opinions about a question that both think of importance?”
It was the young man’s turn to be surprised. He rose and looked at the other in astonishment. “What do you mean, Dr. Ware? I thought—Miss Charlotte—?”
“Yes, I understand. Charlotte likes to talk and she says a great deal more than she means. But Rhoda and I are in sympathy on the question of slavery, and I am what you southern people call a fanatic and a black abolitionist. If I had supposed that our meeting on the boat would lead to anything more than mere passing acquaintance I would have spoken of my sentiments then.”
“It seems to me, sir, that if husband and wife love each other truly, matters of opinion are of little consequence between them.”
Dr. Ware shook his head gravely. “A matter of opinion? My young friend, it is much more than that, for both of you. But this is something for you and Rhoda to settle between yourselves. As for me, it would grieve me deeply to see Rhoda marry you, just because you are a slaveholder, and I must tell you right now that whatever influence I have with my daughter shall be used against your suit. Nevertheless,”—he held out his hand, the young man gripped it, and they shook hands warmly, although each saw kindling in the other’s eyes the fires of opposition. “Nevertheless,” Dr. Ware went on, “you have my consent to win her if you can. Frankly, though, I don’t believe you can do it after she realizes that to be your wife she must be the mistress of slaves.”