He was curious and impatient, for he was sure she was
going to speak of Morris Townsend; but he let her take her own time,
for he was determined to be very mild.
"I am engaged to be married!" Catherine announced at last, still
staring at the fire.
The Doctor was startled; the accomplished fact was more than he had
expected. But he betrayed no surprise. "You do right to tell me,"
he simply said. "And who is the happy mortal whom you have honoured
with your choice?"
"Mr. Morris Townsend." And as she pronounced her lover's name,
Catherine looked at him. What she saw was her father's still grey
eye and his clear-cut, definite smile. She contemplated these
objects for a moment, and then she looked back at the fire; it was
much warmer.
"When was this arrangement made?" the Doctor asked.
"This afternoon--two hours ago."
"Was Mr. Townsend here?"
"Yes, father; in the front parlour." She was very glad that she was
not obliged to tell him that the ceremony of their betrothal had
taken place out there under the bare ailantus-trees.
"Is it serious?" said the Doctor.
"Very serious, father."
Her father was silent a moment. "Mr. Townsend ought to have told
me."
"He means to tell you to-morrow."
"After I know all about it from you? He ought to have told me
before. Does he think I didn't care--because I left you so much
liberty?"
"Oh no," said Catherine; "he knew you would care.
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