Читать книгу Wild Nat, the Trooper; or, The Cedar Swamp Brigade онлайн

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The frugal meal was at last ready. Catherine moved toward the door, but before she reached it, the latch was raised, and a tall, straight, well-featured young man entered.

“Sit down, John; Kate was just going to call you to supper.”

“All right, mother; I feel hungry enough; and, after awhile, I want to go over to Squire Stoddart’s. I will be back early, though. I guess you and Kate will not be afraid to be left alone for a little while.”

Mrs. Vale smiled as she answered, “I think not; but, John, it seems to me that you want to see Squire Stoddart rather often. What has he got that is so attractive? Can’t you enlighten us?”

“Certainly, mother, if you will tell me that you are really ignorant, and ask for the sole purpose of finding out what it is, and not to plague me.”

“I can’t say that; so I suppose we will scarcely get the requested information from you. Mary Stoddart is a fine girl, John; and, if the country ever gets settled down, I would have no objection to calling her daughter; but, now-a-days, marrying and giving in marriage, are things which had best be deferred.”