t eyes, for him to begin.

"Well, Flora," he said at last, "have you thought?"

"Do you know any cause against it?" said Flora, still looking down.

"I know almost nothing of him. I have never heard anything of his
character or conduct. Those would be a subject of inquiry, if you wish
to carry this on--"

"I see you are averse," said Flora. "I would do nothing against your
wishes--"

"My wishes have nothing to do with it," said Dr. May. "The point
is--that I must do right, as far as I can, as well as try to secure your
happiness; and I want to be sure that you know what you are about."

"I know he is not clever," said Flora; "but there may be many solid
qualities without talent."

"I am the last person to deny it; but where are these solid qualities? I
cannot see the recommendation!"

"I place myself in your hands," said Flora, in a submissive tone, which
had the effect of making him lose patience.

"Flora, Flora! why will you talk as if I were sacrificing you to some
dislike or prejudice of my own! Don't you think I should only rejoice
to have such a prosperous home offered to you, if only the man were
worthy?"

"If you do not think him so, of course there is an end of it," said
Flora, and her voice showed suppressed emotion.

"It is not what I think, in the absence of proof, but what you think,
Flora. What I want you to do is this--to consider the matter fairly.
Compare him with--I'll not say with Norman--but with Richard, Alan, Mr.
Wilmot. Do you think you could rely on him--come to him for advice?"
(Flora never did come to any one for advice.) "Above all--do you think
him likely to be a help, or a hindrance, in doing right?"

"I think you underrate him," said Flora steadily; "but, of course, if
you dislike it--though, I think, you would change your mind if you knew
him better--"

"Well," he said, as if to himself, "it is not always the most worthy;"
then continued, "I have no dislike to him. Perhaps I may find that you
are right. Since your mind is made up, I will do this: first, we must be
assured of his father's consent, for they may very fairly object, since
what I can give you is a mere nothing to them. Next, I shall find out
what character he bears in his regiment, and watch him well myself; and,
if nothing appear seriously amiss, I will not withhold my consent. But,
Flora, you should still consider whether he shows such principle and
right feeling as you can trust to."

"Thank you, papa. I kn