“Yes, Mamma, Tom has asked me to marry him and I said ‘yes,’ for I know that you and Papa like him. Now you say ‘yes’—do dear.”
“Yes, I will say it gladly. Tom, I have always liked you and I’m sure you and Ethel will be happy. I give my consent with all my heart,” and Tom took her in his arms and kissed her tenderly.
“Thank you,” he said, “you have given me a precious gift. You shall never regret it.”
Then they sought Mr. Hollister and were closeted with him for a long time, after which Grandmother and Aunt Susan had to be told, and lastly Nora.
So that Christmas brought two engagements in the Hollister circle.
Ethel decided to finish college before marrying, and Nora her school. The men had to be content.
“We’ll have one more year at Camp anyway,” said Nora. “I shall be glad to spend my last single summer there.”
“And Tom and Harvey will practically be with us,” said Ethel. “Nora, are you not a happy girl?”
“I am,” said Nora.
“So am I,” rejoined Ethel.