“Yes, all Germans talk so Dutchy.”
“You would make fun of him if he should give you lessons, Mabel,” said Florence, smiling.
“I am afraid I would. Now seriously, Florence, I want you to think of this thing I have proposed. You really need something to take up your attention. I suppose the marriage will not take place for some time.”
“What marriage?” asked Florence, quickly.
“That of yourself and Mr. Haywood. Isn’t it generally understood that you are engaged to him?”
“I hope not, for it is not true. But I believe Colonel Conrad had some such thought. He held Mr. Haywood in great esteem.”
“I understood that it went farther than that—that he was particularly desirous a match should be made.”
“Perhaps he was,” replied Florence, gravely. “But I do not approve of such affairs being arranged for youngpeople before they have had time to know their own minds.”
“Nor I; but I suppose this arrangement was satisfactory. There is not a marriageable maiden in Dalton but would be glad to have had him excepting myself.”
“And me,” said Florence, quietly.