John went with me at Mr.Laurence's request, and was so devoted to poor Father that we couldn't help getting fond of him.

He was perfectly open and honorable about Meg, for he told us he loved her, but would earn a comfortable home before he asked her to marry him.

He only wanted our leave to love her and work for her, and the right to make her love him if he could.

He is a truly excellent young man, and we could not refuse to listen to him, but I will not consent to Meg's engaging herself so young." "Of course not.

It would be idiotic! I knew there was mischief brewing.