My dear Mina, why are men so noble to women who don't deserve it? Here I was, almost laughing at this generous true gentleman. I felt so very bad about it that I started to cry - I am afraid, my dear, you will think this letter is a very messy one. Why can't a girl marry three men, or marry all the men that want to marry her? That would save all this trouble. But no-one would allow that, and I must not say it. But though I was crying, I am happy about one thing. I was able to look right into the brave eyes of Mr. Morris. I told him honestly ... 'Yes, there is someone I love. But he has not yet even said that he loves me.' I was right to speak so frankly. His face lit up and he put out both his hands and took mine. Or maybe I put my hands into his. Then he said in a cheerful way ...

'That's my brave girl. I would rather be too late to ask you than be in time to marry any other girl in the world. So don't cry, my dear. If you are crying for me, don't worry, because I am strong enough to take it. I hope that other fellow knows that he is a lucky man. If not, he'd better realize it soon, or I will have to tell him. Little girl, your honesty and bravery have made me a friend. And a friend is harder to find than a lover. My dear, the rest of my life is going to be rather lonely. Won't you give me one kiss? The memory will be something to cheer me up when I get sad. You know, you can kiss me if you want to. That other fellow hasn't spoken to you yet. He must be a good fellow, a fine fellow, or you could not love him.'