One of Our Conquerors - World eBook Library

One of Our Conquerors
Mr. Barmby a semblance to the powers of ocean.
At the first direct note, the burden of which necessitated a
pause, she petitioned him to be her friend, to think of himself
as her friend.
But a vessel laden with merchandize, that has crossed wild
seas for this particular port, is hardly to be debarred from
discharging its goods on the quay by simple intimations of
their not being wanted. We are precipitated both by the aim
and the tedium of the lengthened voyage to insist that they
be seen. We believe perforce in their temptingness; and should
allurement fail, we fall back to the belief in our eloquence.
An eloquence to expose the qualities they possess, is the
testification in the promise of their excellence. She is to be
induced by feeling to see it. We are asking a young lady for
the precious gift of her hand. We respect her; and because of
our continued respect, despite an obstruction, we have come
to think we have a claim upon her gratitude; could she but
be led to understand how different we are from some other
man!—from one hitherto favoured among them, unworthy
of this prize, however personally exalted and meritorious.
The wave of wide extension rolled and sank and rose, heaving
lifeless variations of the sickly streaks on its dull green
back.
Dudley Sowerby’s defection was hinted at and accounted
for, by the worldly test of worldly considerations.
What were they?—Nesta glanced.
An indistinct comparison was modestly presented, of one
unmoved by worldly considerations.
But what were they? She was wakened by a lamp, and her
darkness was all inflammable to it.
‘Oh! Mr. Barmby, you have done me the honour to speak
before; you know my answer,’ she said.
‘You were then subject to an influence. A false, I may say
wicked, sentiment upholding celibacy.’
‘My poor Louise? She never thought of influencing me.
She has her views, I mine. Our friendship does not depend
on a “treaty of reciprocity.” We are one at heart, each free to
judge and act, as it should be in friendship. I heard from her
this morning. Her brother will be able to resume his military
duties next month. Then she will return to me.’
‘We propose!’ rejoined Mr. Barmby.
Beholding the involuntary mercurial rogue-dimple he had
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