"It's true.

An' what's more--your dad gave y'u to me before he died." "What! Colter, y'u must be a liar." "Ellen, I swear I'm not lyin'," he returned, in eager passion.

"I was with your dad last an' heard him last.

He shore knew I'd loved y'u for years.

An' he said he'd rather y'u be left in my care than anybody's." "My father gave me to y'u in marriage!" ejaculated Ellen, in bewilderment.
Colter's ready assurance did not carry him over this point.