XXXI

troubled that I forgot all about myself, and asked what the matter was. He said he’d just got a letter begging him to come home, for Frank was very ill; so he was going at once, in the night train, and only had time to say goodbye. I was very sorry for him, and disappointed for myself, but only for a minute, because he said, as he shook hands⁠—and said it in a way that I could not mistake⁠—‘I shall soon come back; you won’t forget me, Amy?’ “I didn’t promise, but I looked at him, and he seemed satisfied, and there was no time for anything but messages and goodbyes, for he was off in an hour, and we all miss him very much. I know he wanted to speak, but I think, from something he once hinted, that he had promised his father not to do anything of the sort yet awhile, for he is a rash boy, and the old gentleman dreads a foreign daughter-in-law. We shall soon meet in Rome; and then, if I don’t change my mind, I’ll say ‘Yes, thank you,’ when he says ‘Will you, please?’ “Of course this is all very private , but I wished you to know what was going on. Don’t be anxious about me; remember I am your ‘prudent Amy,’ and be sure I will do nothing rashly. Send me as much advice as you like; I’ll use it if I can. I wish I could see you for a good talk, Marmee. Love and trust me. “Ever your Amy .”