"I love Isabella," I said simply. "Haven't you guessed it?"
"What! Do you mean——?"
"I do," I said. "Will you give her to me?"
"I—I have seen a change in her lately, and—and——But, my dear boy——"
"I am afraid I am what you will call a poor match," I went on. "The doctor says it will be months before I shall be fully strong again, although he promises me that I shall be able to resume my old profession in a couple of months from now. Perhaps my clients will have forgotten me; still, I think I can get some new ones; my reputation seems to be better than I thought it was. Besides, if I become fully strong again, I shall feel it my duty to offer my services to the country; so I shall be a poor match, I am afraid, but I love her."
"And she?" he asked.
"She knows all I have told you," I replied.
"And—and—that has made all the change in her then. Why—why——"
"Will you give her to me, Mr. Lethbridge?" I repeated. "Will you let me take Hugh's place as far as I can? I will give my life to make her happy."
His astonishment seemed too great for words; several times he attempted to speak, but broke down each time.