I should have run to meet my cousin, but I did not dare to be familiar with the poet whom all begin to honor." "You like the mixture, then?
You know I said I'd try to give you love and poetry together." "Like it! I'm so glad, so proud, I haven't any words strong and beautiful enough to half express my wonder and my admiration.

How could you do it, Mac ?" And a whole face full of smiles broke loose as Rose clapped her hands, looking as if she could dance with sheer delight.
"It did itself, up there among the hills, and here with you, or out alone upon the sea.

I could write a heavenly poem this very minute, and put you in as Spring you look like her in that green gown with snowdrops in your bonny hair.

Rose, am I getting on a little?
Does a hint of fame help me nearer to the prize I'm working for?
Is your heart more willing to be won ?" He did not stir a step, but looked at her with such intense longing that his glance seemed to draw her nearer like an irresistible appeal, for she went and stood before him, holding out both hands, as if she offered all her little store, as she said with simplest sincerity: "It is not worth so much beautiful endeavor, but if you still want so poor a thing, it is yours." He caught her hands in his and seemed about to take the rest of her, but hesitated for an instant, unable to believe that so much happiness was true.
"Are you sure, Rose very sure?
Don't let a momentary admiration blind you I'm not a poet yet, and the best are but mortal men, you know." "It is not admiration, Mac." "Nor gratitude for the small share I've taken in saving Uncle?
I had my debt to pay, as well as Phebe, and was as glad to risk my life." "No it is not gratitude." "Nor pity for my patience?
I've only done a little yet, and I am as far as ever from being like your hero.

I can work and wait still longer if you are not sure, for I must have all or nothing." "Oh, Mac! Why will you be so doubtful?
You said you'd make me love you, and you've done it.