Page:The grandmother; a story of country life in Bohemia.pdf/277

Rh meantime had returned and was listening to Grandmother's story.

"Yes, he would not have it otherwise. His uncle had obtained permission for him to marry, and they were waiting till I should come on the pilgrimage. After we had discussed everything, George went away for the night, while I remained with his uncle. He was a dear, good old man,—may God grant his soul eternal rest! The next morning George came over very early, and he and his uncle engaged in an earnest conversation, after which George came to me and said:

"'Madeline, tell me truly, upon your conscience, do you love me so that you could endure hardships for my sake, and forsake your father and mother?'

"'Yes,' I replied.

"'Then remain here and be my wife,' he said, and throwing his arms around my neck, kissed me.

"He had never kissed me before. This was not the custom among us; but, poor fellow! he was beside himself with joy and did not know what he was doing.

"'But what will your mother say, what will my parents say?' I asked, while my heart beat fast with joy and anxiety.

"'What should they? Do they not love us? would they want me to die of grief?'

"'But for heaven's sake, dear George, we must have our parents' blessing!'

"He did not reply, but his uncle stepped to us, and sending him away said to me:

"'Madeline, I see you are a pious girl; I like you, and know that George will be happy, and