“Why should I do so?”
“There is no reason, perhaps, why you should do it; so we’ll say no more about that.”
“I’ll think of it, any how,” said the jeweler.
“Very well; I’ll call and pay you for them before three o’clock.”
And Albertson left the store and returned to his place of business.
“He must have plenty of money to throw away,” said Milford to himself, as the young man retired.
CHAPTER XIX.
A DISAPPOINTMENT.
The answer received by Albertson from Eunice, was promptly responded to, and the privilege of visiting her at her father’s house asked; but she replied,
“Not yet. My father is in trouble, and doubt hangs over his business, small as it is. It requires all my efforts to inspire him with confidence. I do not wish him, just at this time, to think that my affections are divided. And, besides, your appearance may remind him too strongly of other and more prosperous days. A little while longer; only a little while longer. Misfortune is changing him, and the change is altogether favorable to our wishes.”
Not long after this, an accidental meeting took place, in which Eunice made her lover clearly comprehend her position. Admiration for her filial virtues overcame, from that time, all impatience.