"You are mistaken, sir; I said nothing to her about 'Mormonism.' She told me a little about—"
"Well, whatever it was, she was and is still ill over it. Let me tell you,—and I am sure you will believe me,—my little girl is all I have. She has been ailing for years, heart trouble mostly, with complications. A comfortable voyage with no over-excitement might help, the doctors said; and that's the main reason for this trip. She has always been interested in religious questions, which I naturally encouraged her in; but when she got mixed up somewhat with the 'Mormons,' that was quite another matter."
"Why, may I ask?"
"Well, it excited her. It brought her in contact with undesirable people, people not of her class and standing—"
"Like me, for instance."
"I did not say that."
"You inferred it. But pardon me. I would not, for the world, do anything that would unfavorably affect your daughter."
"I knew you would look at the matter sensibly. Perhaps it would be for the best if you did not meet her oftener than possible. I know it is difficult on ship-board, but for her sake you might try."
"For her sake, why certainly, I'll do anything—for I want to tell you, Mr. Strong, you have a good, sweet daughter."
"I'm glad you think so."