"They would not see how it
was. But I can only tell you the truth!"
"Wait a moment," she said, interrupting. "You are not just yourself. Let
me talk to you. Only a little while ago a girl came to me."
He started up, but she restrained him.
"Listen! She had heard. There were plenty to tell her when she asked. We
have given occasion for gossip. Gossip has eyes and ears and good
imagination. It has even been reported that our engagement would be
announced after the legislative ball. Wait! She heard all that from the
first one she asked. She has told me so. She believes it!"
"Believes it! What did you tell her?"
"Wait, I say! I have shown patience this afternoon. I waited for her to
speak. Let me tell you what she said while I waited. She said she wanted
you to be a great man. She knew, so she told me, that she only brought
trouble and distress to you. She wanted to see me so that she might know
if I were the one who could help you in your career. I'll not tell you
what she said to me about myself. She is a sweet and gracious girl, that
little Clare, Harlan! She said she knew I could help you in your work in
life.
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