It won't throw no shadow on you," I said, "if
you was to pretend a little interest in me; but when Gregory found out you
was doing so, and heard the name of Mary Stocks in your mouth, and guessed
you find your mind occupied with me off and on, then 'twould be the match
to the powder in my opinion; and I should never forget your great goodness
and bless your name."
He took a good long time before he answered, and I was feared of my life
he would refuse to have any hand in the affair. He cast his eyes over me
that searching that I felt I might have gone too far; but then he grinned,
which was an expression of pleasure very rare indeed with Arthur, and his
brow lifted, and he went so far as to wink one of his pale grey eyes, the
one with a drooping lid.
"For John's sake," I said.
"As to John," he answered, "I never heard him say he was particular
anxious for you to take another, and many husbands feel rather strong on
that subject, as you can see when you hear their wills after they be gone;
but as poor John hadn't nothing to leave, he couldn't make no conditions
to hamper your freedom of action, and for my part I see no reason why you
shouldn't marry Gregory Sweet if you want to."
"I do," I said. "He's a man you could trust, and you put safety first at
my time of life."
Well, Arthur dallied a bit and didn't throw himself into it exactly; but
none the less, before I left him he promised to do his part and make Mr.
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