A Colonial Wooing
this he did. Even here he found difficulties and delays, but at last completed his task; and, as there were to be two other women passengers, neither Thomas Gardiner nor any of the Friends in Chesterfield could adversely criticise him. He felt infinitely relieved, and yet, two days later, when he attended meeting in Burlington, the Spirit did not move him to speak. Thomas Gardiner's eyes seemed steadily fixed upon him, and he was glad when the elders shook hands and meeting was over.
Matthew's peace of mind, or that stern confidence in his own strength which did poor duty for it, was not improved by the events of his trip. The cost was almost treble what he had anticipated, and he had much to provide for Ruth's comfort while on board. The sea was apt to be rough, the weather bad, and the voyage a long one, but he could take no backward step. He engaged her passage, and Ruth must now return to England about the middle of the month.
What, then, was his amazement when,
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