Page:Far from the Maddening Girls.djvu/176

 tender side, a considerate side, a side which is calculated to insure any woman’s happiness. I have not the ardour of a youthful lover, but I have something better — the sobriety of common-sense and the experience of a man of the world. I have a home to offer, and an affection which, if not impetuous, is stable and enduring. I am persuaded that my life is incomplete, and I make bold to suggest that yours is, also. I am not a vain man, but I think I can promise to make you happy. I have the honour and the pleasure” — and I bowed — “of asking you to become my wife.”

With incredible promptitude Miss Berrith replied:

“And I, Mr. Sands, have the honour and the regret of declining your very flattering offer.”

“You refuse me!” I exclaimed.

“Unqualifiedly!” said she, and — for no reason whatever — stamped with her foot upon the polished floor.