"Because," she replied, "there are already several printing-offices in the country, and I doubt whether another can be supported."
"If I cannot support her by the printing business," answered Benjamin, "then I will do it some other way."
"I have no doubt of your good intentions; but you may not realize the fulfilment of all your hopes. I think you had better leave the matter as it is until you return from England, and see how you are prospered."
The old lady won the day, and the young couple agreed to proceed no further at present.
The above reference to the fact that only four or five printing-offices existed in America at that time, may serve to exhibit its rapid growth. For in 1840, there were one thousand five hundred and fifty-seven of them, and now probably there are twice that number.
"I am going to England with you, Benjamin," said Ralph one day, as they met. "Don't you believe it?"
"It is almost too good news to believe," replied Benjamin. "But I should be glad of your company, I assure you."
"It is true," continued Ralph. "I was not jesting when I told you, the other day, that I meant to go if I could."
"Then you are really in earnest? You mean to go?"
"To be sure I do. I have fully decided to go."