"
"It is a matter of utter indifference to me how the others word it,"
and Philip leaned up comfortably against a rock as he looked at
Patty. "The only thing that engrosses my mind, is whether I myself
can word it persuasively enough to make you say yes. Do you think I
can?"
"You never can tell till you try," said Patty, in a flippant tone.
"Then I'll try. But, Patty, dearest, you know it all; you know how I
love you, you know how long I have loved you. Aren't you ever going
to give me the least little encouragement?"
"How can I, Phil, when I don't feel encouraging a bit?"
"But you will, dear, won't you? You remember last winter when we
went on that sleighride after the butter and eggs? Why, Patty, you
ALMOST said yes, then."
"Why, Philip Van Reypen! I didn't do anything of the sort! I had no
idea of saying yes, then,--I haven't now,--and I'm not sure that I
ever shall have!"
"I'll wait, Patty," and Van Reypen spoke cheerfully. "I'll wait,
Little Girl, because I think a love like mine is bound to win at
last. And I know you're too young yet to make up your mind. But,
Patty, there isn't anybody else, is there?"
"Anybody else what?"
"Anybody else who likes you as much as I do.
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