At first she did not seem to take to the idea, but on second thoughts she appeared more favourably disposed.

She considered that sooner or later something of the kind must happen, and it was perhaps just as well that the chaplain, who was already so dear to her should become a member of the family.

She therefore said, when she had made up her mind-- "Well, Mr.Martens, if you really think that Madeleine will make you a good wife in the eyes of God and man, I have nothing to do but give you my very best wishes on the choice you have made.

You will find Madeleine in the green-room." Pastor Martens went off to the green-room, and returned after a quarter of an hour had elapsed; but Mrs.Garman's astonishment defies description, when she learnt that he had met with a refusal.
"Tell me," she groaned--"tell me every word.

Oh, the poor misguided child!" "I am afraid I cannot tell you every word that passed, Mrs.Garman," answered Martens, pale with emotion; "I am too much shocked and--" "And surprised too, I am sure," said Mrs.Garman, concluding his sentence; "yes, that I can readily believe.