"The fact is, that up to three weeks ago I believed Miss Portheris to be the incarnation of so many unassuming virtues and personal charms that I was almost ready to make a fresh bid for domestic happiness in her society. I have for some time wished to marry——"
"I know," I said sympathetically.
"But during the last three weeks I have become a little uncertain."
"There shouldn't be the slightest uncertainty," I observed.
"Marriage in England is such a permanent institution."
"I have known it to last for years even in the United States," I sighed.
"And it is a serious responsibility to undertake to reciprocate in full the devotion of an attached wife."
"I fancy Isabel is a person of strong affections," I said; "one notices it with her mother. And any one who could dote on Mrs. Portheris would certainly——"
"I fear so," said Mr. Mafferton.
"I understand," I continued, "why you hesitate. And really, feeling as you do, I wouldn't be precipitate."