Page:A Colonial Wooing.djvu/242

 Robert; "you'll be married at my house, of course, since her loving step-father won't let her go home."

"That is Ruth's wish; but there are Friends who object and say it will promote discord. I am sorely puzzled."

"Well, John, I wish I was the king for half a day. I'd settle the matter and shut up mouths at the same time," said Robert, impatiently.

"Thee would not make it a case of hasty marriage and leisurely repentance, I hope."

"You're not to be argued with to-day, that's certain. I'll consult with Ruth, and you can do as we decide or not; but there's no danger as to what your decision will be. If you don't mind your words, John, pretty closely, the neighbors will say, 'John's wife is more clever than her husband.'"

John laughed at this and said, "Why, I have always said Ruth was more clever than any one I knew."

"Yes, but that is excepting yourself, and that won't do. Anyhow, I see I'm not through with this business yet. I'll see Ruth and arrange particulars."