"But, Tom, she would not take it as coolly. She knows only country ways. She might think attentions mean more than they do."
"I don't care," said Tom.
"My dear boy," said his mother now, "it will not do, not to care. It would not be honourable to raise hopes you do not mean to fulfil; and to take such a girl for your wife, would be simply ruinous."
"Where will you find such another girl?" cried Tom, flaring up.
"But she has nothing, and she is nobody."
"She is her own sweet self," said Tom.
"But not an advantageous wife for you, my dear. Society does not know her, and she does not know society. Your career would be a much more humble one with her by your side. And money you want, too. You need it, to get on properly; as I wish to see you get on, and as you wish it your self. My dear boy, do not throw your chances away!"
"It's my belief, that is just what you are trying to make me do!" said the young man; and he went off in something of a huff.
"Mamma, we must do something. And soon," remarked Miss Julia. "Men are such fools! He rushed through with everything and came home to-day just to see that girl. A pretty face absolutely bewitches them." N. B. Miss Julia herself did not possess that bewitching power.
"I will go to Florida," said Mrs. Caruthers, sighing.