“He would never ask her.”

“Not unless he thought he had a chance of an affirmative answer.”

“Her father would never allow it.”

“Her father allows what she permits him to allow. You know that perfectly well.”

“What shall I do about it, then?”

“Consult me.”

“What shall WE do about it?”

“Let Nature have her own way.”

“I don’t believe in Nature.”

“Don’t be profane, Salemina, and don’t be unromantic, which is worse; but if you insist, trust in Providence.”