The conversation you advised had unfortunately taken
place before I got an opportunity to speak to John. There has been
a quarrel."
"What was said?"
"I scarcely know how the conversation began; but Richard told John,
that people were talking about his intimacy with me; and that, as
marriage was impossible between us, the intimacy must cease."
"What else?"
"I do not know; many hard things were said on both sides, and John
went away in a passion."
"Go home and see your brother, and make some concessions to his claim
upon your love. Tell him that you will not marry John for two years;
that will give John time to prepare in some measure for your comfort.
Promise in addition any thing that is reasonable. I fear Richard's
temper, but I fear John's more; for the anger of a patient man is a
deep anger, and John has been patient, very. Don't you be impatient,
Phyllis. Wait for time to carry you over the stream, and don't fling
yourself into the flood, and perish."
"Two years!"
"But reflect--a quarrel becomes a duel here very readily--dare you
provoke such a possibility?"
"Dear father, pray for me."
"I will. Trust God, and every rod shall blossom for you. Be patient
and prudent. Birds build their nests before they mate, and love needs
the consecration of a home. Tell John to make one for you, and then
to come and speak to Richard again.
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