mother tells me you are not going to marry her."

"Your mother is mistaken," rejoined Mallow gravely. "Juliet
and I are still engaged. I do not intend to give her up."

"I told mother you would not give in easily," said Basil,
frowning, "but you can't marry Juliet."

"Why not?" asked Cuthbert sharply; "do you know the reason?"

Basil appeared about to say something, then suddenly closed
his mouth and shook his head.

Cuthbert pressed him. "If you know the reason, tell me," he
said, "and I'll help you out of your difficulties. You know I
love Juliet, and your mother does not seem to have any excuse
to forbid the marriage."

"I would help you if I could, but I can't. You had better ask
Juliet herself. She may tell you the reason."

"How can I find her?"

"Go down to Rose Cottage and ask to see her," suggested Basil.

"Your mother will not admit me."

"That's true enough. Well, I'll tell you what, Mallow, I'll
speak to Juliet and get her to make an appointment to see
you."