disappeared, and the world seemed to her to be more sad and solemn than
ever. She had no idea when she was refusing him that he would have
taken it to heart as he had done. The question had come before her for
decision so suddenly, that she had not, in fact, had time to think of
this as she was making her answer. All she had done was to feel that
she could not be to him what he wished her to be. And even as yet she
had hardly asked herself why she must be so steadfast in her refusal.
But she had refused him steadfastly, and she did not for a moment think
of reducing the earnestness of her resolution. It seemed to be manifest
to her, from his present manner, that he would never ask the question
again; but she was sure, let it be asked ever so often, that it could
not be answered in any other way.

Mr Amedroz, not knowing why it was so, became cross and querulous, and
scolded his daughter. To Belton, also, he was captious, making little
difficulties, and answering him with petulance. This the rejected lover
took with most extreme patience, as though such a trifling annoyance
had no effect in adding anything to his misery. He still held his
purpose of going on the Saturday, and was still intent on work which
was to be done before he went; but it seemed that he was satisfied to
do everything now as a duty, and that the enjoyment of the thing, which
had heretofore been so conspicuous, was over.

At last they separated, and Clara, as was her wont, went up to her
father's room. 'Papa,' she said, 'what is all this about Mr Belton?'

'All what, my dear? what do you mean?'

'He has asked me to be to be his wife; and has told me that he came
with your consent.'