"Y-yes, sir."
"Well, it's no news to me. The whole family have been enjoying the affair for some time. I suppose you're asking—or think you're asking—for my daughter's hand in marriage?"
"That's it—yes, sir—exactly."
"I guessed as much. I'm glad to tell you, young man, that I've always had the kindliest feelings for you personally—"
"Thank you, sir—"
"And the warmest admiration for your talents as an officer. You're a good soldier. You have brains. You have executive ability. You're a leader of men. You'll go far in your profession—"
"Thank you, sir—"
"And that's why I don't like you as a son-in-law."
"W—Wha—"
"I love my daughter, and I want her to be happy in a real home with a real husband and children by her side. A soldier's life is a dog's life. I've pitied the poor girl who gave up her home for me. Many a bitter tear has she shed over my absence, in torturing dread of the next letter from the frontier—"