general observations, and a gradual leading up to the main point. There is nothing to be gained by trying to hurry him. It results simply in inarticulation. Gentle encouragement, like a tidal wave, floats him ever nearer and nearer his high-water mark (which one perceives from afar) and finally lands him correctly in the middle of it. So in the sanctuary of intoxicating woodland peacefulness with an oriole fluting over-head, I assumed a provocative air of casualness while, with many crossings and uncrossings and recrossings of his jean-covered legs, and interminable chewings of the grass-stalk he had acquired by way of moral support, Abel succeeded in acquainting me with the most momentous fact and crowning achievement of his life, his marriage.
Scarcely less momentous for us than for him. For on the disposition of the newly acquired partner of his joys and sorrows, would depend much of the comfort and success of our future summers in this sylvan abode. I own to gloomy forebodings. Matrimony is such a lottery at the best, and Abel wore so little the aspect of a prize. But I had the decency to look cheerful at any rate and to throw
