8

The intermediary was delighted. Things were going nicely.

“Why hold back? If you agree, everything is as good as settled. What he really wants is a bride with a father who loves her, it doesn't matter how young she is. He knows he made a mistake when he let himself get involved with the other one. He's a fine young fellow, and everyone expects great things from him. And he's a good deal quieter and steadier than you'd expect such an important young fellow to be. He knows his way around, and he has land scattered all over the country. Of course he doesn't have much money yet, but to the manner born, as they say. You'd do a good deal better to have him than some flashy upstart, I don't care how rich he might be. Next year he'll make the Fourth Rank, not a doubt about it. His Majesty himself has promised to make him a privy secretary, so you see there's absolutely not a doubt about it. His Majesty goes on to say it's a crying shame that such a fine young fellow, why you couldn't find a flaw in him, should still be single. Go get yourself a wife, His Majesty keeps saying, and useful in-laws. One of these days he'll be right in there with the best of them—His Majesty says he'll be there himself to promise it. His Majesty doesn't have a more devoted servant, and knows it. Two people couldn't be closer. Talented, serious, dedicated—all this and more. Why not make up your mind right here on the spot? A man might almost say if you asked him that this is more than you bargained for. Hundreds of people would jump at the chance to have him for a son-inlaw. If you hesitate you're lost. What I say I say because I have your interests at heart.”

It had been a long and persuasive speech. The countrified governor had listened smiling.