"We writes it in the fly-leaf of our Bibles accordingly," said John.
"No, my man, write it somewhere where you'll have a chance to read it."
This caused a laugh; and when it was over, the butler, who did not feel
strong enough to chaff a lady of this caliber, inquired obsequiously
whether he might venture to ask who was the happy stranger to carry off
such a prize.
"A civil question deserves a civil answer, Mr. Wright," said Mary. "It
is a sea-faring man, the mate of a ship. He have known me a few years
longer than any man in these parts. Whenever he comes home from a
voyage he tells me what he has made, and asks me to marry him. I have
said 'No' so many times I'm sick and tired; so I have said 'Yes' for
once in a way. Changes are lightsome, you know."
Thus airily did Mary Wells communicate her prospects, and next morning
early was driven to the station; a cart had gone before with her
luggage, which tormented the female servants terribly; for, instead of
the droll little servant's box, covered with paper, she had a large
lady's box, filled with linen and clothes by the liberality of Lady
Bassett, and a covered basket, and an old carpet-bag, with some minor
packages of an unintelligible character. Nor did she make any secret
that she had money in both pockets; indeed, she flaunted some notes
before the groom, and told him none but her lady knew all she had done
for Sir Charles.
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