'Too late for that, certainly,' said Louis; and the smile was a
relief to both. 'At any rate, it shows that he can spare you. Only
give him time. When he has my father's explanation--and my father is
certain to be so concerned at having cast any imputation on a lady.
His first thought was to apologize--'

'That is not all! I remember now that dear mamma always said she did
not know whether he would consent. Oh! how weak I was ever to
listen--'

'No, Mary, that must not be said. It was my presumptuous, inveterate
folly that prevented you from trusting my affection when she might
have helped us.'

'I don't know. It would have caused her anxiety and distress when
she was in no state for them. I don't think it did,' said Mary,
considering; 'I don't think she ever knew how much I cared.'

The admission could only do Louis's heart good, and he recurred to
his arguments that her father could be persuaded by such a letter as
he felt it in him to write.

'You do not know all,' said Mary. 'I could not show you his letter;
but, from it and from my aunt, I better understand what impressions
he has of you all, and how hopeless it is.'

'Tell me!'

She could not help giving herself the relief, when that most loving,