"And does she return your love?"
"She authorized me to speak to you. If you have no objection, she will give her consent."
"It is an important matter," said Mr. Manton, slowly; "giving away the hand of an only daughter in marriage."
"I will do my utmost to make her happy," said the enamored lover.
"I have no doubt of it. To be sure I have not known you long; but I have formed quite a favorable opinion of you from our brief acquaintance."
This was hardly true; for Mr. Manton had designated James Cromwell as an awkward booby in familiar conversation with his daughter, and she had assented to the justice of the epithet.
"Thank you, sir," said Cromwell; "may I then hope for your consent?"
"Why, you see, Mr. Cromwell," said Mr. Manton, throwing one leg over the other, "there are several things to be taken into consideration besides the personal character of the husband. For instance—I hope you won't think me mercenary—but I want to make sure that you are able to support her in comfort, so that she need not be compelled to endure any of the privations of poverty."
"I have a good business," said Cromwell, "which is sure to bring me in a good income."
"Do you own your shop and stock up clear of incumbrance? Is it all paid for?"