his own marriage he ought at least to make the proposition; it was enough
for his father to agree to it. The trouble had arisen from the reversal of
this natural order.

Mary had perceived that there was dissension between her uncle and cousin,
but she had not associated herself with it. She was sure that it was about
money, for evidently Allan had lived an extravagant life when he was
abroad. So, when he said to her one morning, "Mary, father and I cannot
agree at present, and I think I will go away for a few weeks;" she
answered,

"I think you are right, Allan. If one has a hurt, it does not do to be
always looking at it, and touching it. If you have a quarrel with uncle,
let it rest, and then it will heal. Do you want--any money, Cousin Allan?
I have plenty, and I do not use it."

She spoke shyly with hesitation and blushes, but he felt all the kindness
of the question. He took her hand and kissed it. At that moment she looked
lovely to him.

"I have no need of money, Mary. I only ask for your kind remembrance."

"That is ever yours. Do not go far away."

"Not far. You shall hear from me soon."

The thought of a correspondence struck him very pleasantly. He might
thus--if he liked the idea upon future reflection--arrange the whole
matter with Mary, and return home as her expected husband. That would be a
sufficient assertion of his own individuality.