“It is, and to my mind I have said a good deal.”
“You certainly have. And, believe me, I am not indifferent or unthankful, but—but—the fact is, that at present I am particularly engaged. Good-bye, and thank you.”
So saying, Miles shook the puzzled old gentleman heartily by the hand, and hurried back to his anchorage in the hall.
“I’ve done it, mother!” whispered Miles, two days thereafter, in the privacy of the Institute reading-room.
“Miles!” said the startled lady, with a reproachful look, “I thought you said that nothing would induce you—”
“Circumstances have altered, mother. I have had a long consultation with your ‘kind little lawyer,’ and he has related some interesting facts to me.”
Here followed a detailed account of the facts.
“So, you see, I went and proposed at once—not to the lawyer—to Marion.”
“And was accepted?”
“Well—yes. I could hardly believe it at the time. I scarcely believe it now, so I’m going back this afternoon to make quite sure.”