We never spoke of it: but we all knew.
She knew—I knew, her parents knew and so did mine; nor did we think anything else could happen. It was only a question of time. We were so sure about it that we never spoke of it.
After finishing my course of studies, I became a lawyer; and, when I received my first appointment in a treasury office, one day I drew Fanny's hand within mine, and said to her:
"Fanny dear, you remember the story of Jacob in the Bible?"
"Yes."
"Do you not think Jacob was an excellent fellow, in that he could serve seven years to win his wife?"
"I cannot deny that he was."
"Then you must acknowledge that I am still more excellent for I have already served eight years—to win you."
Fanny looked up at me with those eyes of the summer-morning smile, and with childish happiness replied:
"And to prove your excellence still further, you must wait two years more."