"Mamma won't think so," she retorted, without looking up; "and you know you are not obliged to hear it."
"Ah! but that is not the objection; I want to hear every word of it: but
I can't spare my companion and nurse so long."
She turned to him with a bright smile. "What can I do for you, dear?
Just tell me. The letter can be finished afterward, you know."
"I want nothing but you," was the smiling rejoinder. "Finish your letter, and then come and sit close by my side.
"But no; you must take your accustomed exercise in the open air."
Considering a moment, "I think," he said, "I'll have you order the carriage for about the time you are likely to be done there, and we'll have a drive together."
She shook her head gravely. "You are not fit for any such exertion."
"Uncle Ben and Solon shall help me down the stairs and into the carriage, so there need be no exertion about it."
"I won't consent," she said. "The doctor left you in my charge; and his orders were, that you should keep quiet for the next few days."
"You prefer to go alone, do you?"