He was ready to be shepherded into any position, like a sheep into a pen.

And he had no particular wish to resist.

He saw a simple satisfaction in Mrs.
Beecher's face and a beautiful joy in Marion's eyes.

It was impossible for him to disappoint them.

He smiled a response to Mrs.Beecher's kindly triumph.
'Isn't that splendid! Now you and Marion will be able to be married quite soon, and I do dislike long engagements.