“Only that he is madly in love with the girl. Have you not seen it? And—you know his temper.” “Adrian, Adrian, always Adrian,” answered Dirk impatiently. “Well, it is a very fitting match, for if she has a great fortune hidden somewhere in a swamp, which in fact she has not, since the bulk of it is bequeathed to me to be used for certain purposes; he has, or will have, moneys also—safe at interest in England. Hark! here they come, so, wife, put on a pleasant face; they will think it unlucky if you do not smile.” As he spoke Foy re-entered the room, leading Elsa by the hand, and she looked as sweet a maid as ever the sun shone on. So they told their story, and kneeling down before Dirk, received his blessing in the old fashion, and very glad were they in the after years to remember that it had been so received. Then they turned to Lysbeth, and she also lifted up her hand to bless them, but ere it touched their heads, do what she would to check it, a cry forced its way to her lips, and she said: “Oh! children, doubtless you love each other well, but is this a time for marrying and giving in marriage?” “My own words, my very words,” exclaimed Elsa, springing to her feet and turning pale. Foy looked vexed. Then recovering himself and trying to smile, he said: “And I give them the same answer—that two are better than one; moreover, this is a betrothal, not a marriage.” “Ay,” muttered Martin behind, thinking aloud after his fashion, “betrothal is one thing and marriage another,” but low as he spoke Elsa overheard him. “Your mother is upset,” broke in Dirk, “and you can guess why, so do not disturb her more at present. Let us to our business, you and Martin to the factory to make arrangements there as I have told you, and I, after I have seen the captain, to whatever God shall call me to do. So, till we meet again, farewell, my son—and daughter,” he added, smiling at Elsa. They left the room, but as Martin was following them Lysbeth called him back. “Go armed to the factory, Martin,” she said, “and see that your young master wears that steel shirt beneath his jerkin.” Martin nodded and went.