Geoffrey's Victory by Mrs Georgie Sheldon — page 96: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

§2 A DECLARATION. about it. Oh, my love, the future looks very bright be- fore us, though the next two years will seem very long to me.” “Wiy, Geoff! I thought study wasa positive delight to you,” Gladys returned, in surprise. “And so itis, but it frets me to feel that, even after I get through college, it will perhaps be years before I can atlain a position tbat will warrant me in asking Uncle August to give you to me finally.” “What kind of a position would satisfy your conscien- tious scruples, Geoftrey ?” Gladys asked, demurely. “TI would not feel willing to take you from a home of affluence to one of poverty—you must never miss the luxuries to which you have been accustomed,” he said, thoughtfully. “Do you expect to find the treasure of a Monte Cristo somewhere?” his companion asked, in the same tone as before. “Oh, no; I expect to provide a home and competence by my brains and hands; but it will take time——” “How much ?” “Years perhaps.” “How many ?” “Wive or six, maybe, if Iam successful; more if I am not; I shall start off to ‘seek my fortune’ Just as soon as I can take my degree.” “Meantime, whatis to become of your humble servant?” “Yout—why, Gladys, you will Lave your home and friends the same as now.” “And you will be outin the werld, somewhere, working for me?” she said, sitting erect and turning her gaze full upon him. “Of course; that is to be expected; doesn’t it please you?” “No. Iamno het-house plant that requires a tem- pered atmosphere in order to thrive and grow! Do you think that I can afford to let vou spend the best years of your life away from me, toiling to give me luxuries, while you deny yourself even the comforts and com- panionship of a home? My father and mother began life in an humble way, and built up their fortune together. I am of no finer clay than they or you; if Iam _ not calcu- lated to share your burdens as well as your pleasures, I am not worthy to be your wife at all,” Gladvs concluded, with an energy and decison that made Geoffrey regard her with surprise. COmiclbooolk< Pre Fo eae — . » boil