“Lawrence says his mother thinks his father will come round by-and-by, when he gets started in his profession; he always liked Elmira.”
“Well, there's one thing,” said Jerome, “and that is—of course you and Elmira are not under my control, but no sister of mine will ever enter any family where she is not welcome, with my consent.”
“Lawrence says he knows his father will be willing by-and-by,” said Elmira, tremulously.
“You know Doctor Prescott always liked your sister,” said Ann Edwards.
“Well, if he likes her well enough to have her marry his son, it's all right,” said Jerome, and went out to wash his hands and face before supper.
That night Lawrence stole in for a short call. When Elmira came up-stairs after he had gone, Jerome, who had been reading in his room, opened his door and called her in.
“Look here, Elmira,” said he, “I don't want you to think I don't want you to be happy. I do.”
Elmira held out her arms towards him with an involuntary motion. “Oh, Jerome!” she whispered.
The brother and sister had always been chary of caresses, but now Jerome drew Elmira close, pressed her little head against his shoulder, and let her cry there.
“Don't, Elmira,” he said, at length, brokenly, smoothing her hair. “You know brother wants you to be happy. You are the only little sister he's got.”