"I think you may guess what I have to say, Mr. Emblem. I am sure that Lala Roy has already guessed it."
The philosopher inclined his head in assent.
"It is that I have this afternoon asked Iris to marry me, Mr. Emblem. And she has consented."
"Have you consented, Iris, my dear?" said her grandfather.
She placed her hand in Arnold's for reply.
"Do you think you know him well enough, my dear?" Mr. Emblem asked gravely, looking at her lover. "Marriage is a serious thing: it is a partnership for life. Children, think well before you venture on the happiness or ruin of your whole lives. And you are so young. What a pity—what a thousand pities that people were not ordained to marry at seventy or so!"
"We have thought well," said Arnold. "Iris has faith in me."
"Then, young man, I have nothing to say. Iris will marry to please herself, and I pray that she may be happy. As for you, I like your face and manners, but I do not know who you are, nor what your means may be. Remember that I am poor—I am so poor—I can tell you all now, that to-morrow we shall—well, patience—to-morrow I shall most likely have my very stock seized and sold."
"Your stock sold? Oh, grandfather!" cried Iris; "and you did not tell me! And I have been so happy."