Mr.Hammond no doubt has been told that you will have a little money by-and-by, and thinks he might do worse than marry you.
And seeing how you have flung yourself at his head, he naturally concludes that you will not be too proud to accept your sister's leavings.' 'There is nothing gained by making cruel speeches, grandmother,' said Mary, firmly.

'I have promised to be John Hammond's wife, and there is nothing you nor anyone else can say which will make me alter my mind.

I wish to act dutifully to you, if I can, and I hope you will be good to me and consent to this marriage.

But if you will not consent, I shall marry him all the same.

I shall be full of sorrow at having to disobey you, but I have promised, and I will keep my promise.' 'You will act in open rebellion against me--against the kinswoman who has reared you, and educated you, and cared for you in all these years!' 'But you have never loved me,' answered Mary, sadly.