"Shall I introduce you to him?" said Samuel. "He has his faults, but he is a very worthy man."
"I don't think it would be wise just now."
"I don't think," continued the American, "that you have waited to be introduced to my niece."
"Sir," cried the young man, dropping his glass.
"Ah, ah!" cried the American, laughing, "That is the way you break my crockery. These lovers, these lovers. Do you think to cheat an old opossum like me? You love my pretty niece, which is very natural; you are a good fellow, and together will make an excellent couple."
"I regret to say it cannot be so," sighed George.
"Why so?" cried Samuel.
"I see you are so good, I can no longer refuse to enlighten you."
"That is right. Confess, for I am your true friend."
"What I have to say," began George, "is not much. I met Miss Diana at Boston at Mrs. Marshall's, where your niece stayed for some months last year. I was on very good terms with your relative."