"Then why not make his path smooth? Why distress him with your tears
and remonstrances?"

He continued in this strain for some time, appealing to her good sense
and her better feelings.

When he had done she said, very quietly, "How about the ponies and my
brown mare? Are they down in the deed?"

"I think not; but if you will do your part handsomely I'll guarantee
you shall have them."

"You are a good soul." Then, after a pause, "Now just you tell me
exactly what you want me to do for all this."

Oldfield was pleased with this question. He said, "I wish you to
abstain from writing to Sir Charles, and him to visit you only once
more before his marriage, just to shake hands and part, with mutual
friendship and good wishes."

"You are right," said she, softly; "best for us both, and only fair to
the girl." Then, with sudden and eager curiosity, "Is she very pretty?"

"I don't know."

"What, hasn't he told you?"

"He says she is lovely, and every way adorable; but then he is in love.
The chances are she is not half so handsome as yourself."