human
You are coming to the funeral to-morrow?
gpt
No, answered Johnsen, drily;
human
I have to give an address at the Mission Bazaar.
gpt
What, between twelve and two? Why, the whole town will be following the funeral.
human
It is for the women, my address,
gpt
Well, thought Martens,
human
Good morning, Mr. Martens! Is it the thought of the discourse you have to deliver to-morrow that makes you look so pleased?
gpt
Discourse! discourse! thought the chaplain. He had never prepared it. It was well indeed he had been thus reminded. However, he answered,
human
If notwithstanding my--or perhaps I ought to say our--sorrow, I do look rather more cheerful than I ought under the circumstances, I only do so from something which has happened to myself. It is purely on personal grounds.
gpt
And may I venture to ask what the circumstances are which make you look so happy?
human
Well, it ought not really to be told to any one to-day, but I think I may venture to tell you, said the pastor, in a calm voice.
gpt
I have proposed to a lady, and have had the good fortune to be accepted.
human
Indeed? I congratulate you! cried the other gaily.
gpt
I think, too, I can guess who it is.
human
Yes, I dare say you can, answered Martens, quietly.
gpt
It is Miss Garman--Madeleine, I mean.
human
It's a lie!