“Are you sure, my dear Aunt, that you have discovered the right road?”

“Certainly, only think, a ton and a half of gold; beauty, amiability, and a knowledge of cookery which excels that of Miss Nylander [The author of a celebrated Swedish cook book.] herself!”

“But love, my dear aunt, is that not to be found in heaven?”

“O, yes, and it might have already made rapid progress if you had assisted me in my first step towards the completion of my designs, by remaining at home instead of running away.”

“Which proves that nothing existed before in which love could take root.”

“Nonsense!” exclaimed Mrs. Ulrica, “if you wish to succeed your father you ought to improve your situation by some good marriage.  Miss Charlotte is a lovely blonde, and Miss Sophia, a beautiful brunette, a perfect Spanish donna.”

“Yes, she has a remarkable resemblance to a donna; but unfortunately I do not prefer Spanish ladies.”

“Well, then Charlotte possesses an affectionate disposition.  You cannot but admire her fine sensitive nature, which should kindle a love equalling Werther’s love of Lotta.”

“That is precisely what I fear.  How would I look imitating Werther?”

“I do not wish you to follow his example.  Charlotte is a girl for whose sake a man might act foolishly, and still be pardoned—­then you prefer Charlotte?”

“No, above all things in the world I detest preferences.”

“That is to say, you will cheerfully take the one of the two sisters you most admire after you have had an opportunity of visiting them a few weeks, and judging of their good qualities for yourself.”

“Nothing of the kind, dear Aunt.”

“Then, what do you mean?”

“That I have a great desire to look out for myself in this matter; and that taking all things into consideration, I am much too young to think of marriage.”

“Then you despise your aunt’s assistance?”

“God forbid that such a sentiment should ever enter my heart.  I honor and love God.  I am grateful to Him that He has given me a heart, and I pray Him not to send me a bride which that heart cannot love.”

“Your words sound well; but I shall not have my little plot marred by them.  Will you or will you not, accompany me to the parsonage, and conduct yourself as you should before the young ladies?”

“I will behave politely towards any young lady; but, aunt, if you have any other meaning concealed beneath those words then—­I will say no!”

“You wish to quarrel with me, then.  Do you understand what that means, my dear nephew?”

“I dare not think of such a misfortune.”

“Yet that misfortune will certainly come.  God knows I would do much for you; but consider upon your words while you have yet time—­you need not trouble yourself to be present at the fishing excursion this evening.”

“Why so, aunt, am I outlawed?”