Should he offer the drawing to
Susan in the presence of her mother and sister, or on some occasion
when they two might be alone together? No such occasion had ever
yet occurred, but Aaron thought that it might probably be brought
about. But then he wanted to make no fuss about it. His first
intention had been to chuck the drawing lightly across the table
when it was completed, and so make nothing of it. But he had
finished it with more care than he had at first intended; and then
he had hesitated when he had finished it. It was too late now for
that plan of chucking it over the table.
On the Saturday evening when he came down from his room, Mr. Beckard
was there, and there was no opportunity that night. On the Sunday,
in conformity with a previous engagement, he went to hear Mr.
Beckard preach, and walked to and from meeting with the family.
This pleased Mrs. Bell, and they were all very gracious that
afternoon. But Sunday was no day for the picture.
On Monday the thing had become of importance to him. Things always
do when they are kept over. Before tea that evening when he came
down Mrs. Bell and Susan only were in the room. He knew Hetta for
his foe, and therefore determined to use this occasion.
"Miss Susan," he said, stammering somewhat, and blushing too, poor
fool! "I have done a little drawing which I want you to accept,"
and he put his portfolio down on the table.
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