Then Patty jumped up and kissed her father many times.
"Oh, Papa!" she said, "why didn't you tell me at first and not frighten me to death. Oh! I should love her so, and I should never be jealous of her. Are you engaged?"
"No," laughed the Judge, "I have never asked her. I thought you deserved the compliment of being first consulted on the matter."
"But, Papa, perhaps she'll refuse you."
"That's my end of it," laughed her father, "but when I do ask her I wish to say that you desire it, too, for Kate might not think it agreeable to you."
"Papa, she's got to say 'yes.' I'll go along and make her if you wish. I'd just love her for a mother," and the girl clung to his neck and wept. "I only now realize how lonely you must have been all these years, and you've done it for me. But don't let her refuse. Tell her I desire it above all things."
"All right, dearie," said the Judge. "I'll go tonight."
"And wake me up, Papa. I shall be so anxious."
Judge Sands laughed and promised.
That night no matter how hard Patty tried she couldn't keep awake. Now that she knew who it was that her father desired she was happy, and one can always sleep when one is happy.