Marvin left the room a few minutes later. Whether it was done for a
purpose or not, Faith did not have time to conjecture.
"Faith, dear Faith," whispered Mr. Watkins, quickly, "am I never, never
to hear your answer?"
He bent toward her so pleadingly that Faith closed her eyes
instinctively. It cut her to the heart to have to witness his sorrow.
"I have loved you so long, so patiently, dear! Can you not give me some
hope, even though it is for the far-distant future?"
"I cannot! Oh, I cannot!" murmured Faith in agony. "Oh, I wish I could,
Mr. Watkins, but it is impossible! I cannot love you!"
The young man rose without a word and took his hat from the table.
"Good-night, Faith," he said, gently. "Good-night, little sister! Don't
worry about me! Some day I will get over it!"
He went silently away without waiting for Mrs. Marvin. Faith breathed a
sigh of relief that her sad duty was over.
"You have refused him, Faith!"
Her mother spoke softly. "Poor fellow! I am sorry, but you know your own
mind, darling."
They sat down again and Faith took up a book. A peal at the bell made
her drop it suddenly.
A few moments later young James Denton entered. He was taller, broader
and deeply bronzed by travel.
"At last, I see you again," he whispered softly as soon as Mrs.
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