and has beside
empty pockets, then he is poor for both worlds. It seems, then, that
our Margaret must marry with a poor man. And let me tell thee, it was
a little thing moved thee, for because Jan had a handsome face, and a
bright smile, thou liked him."

"Many a sore heart folks get who set liking before judgment. But if
there is good in the lad, then to get married will bring it out."

"That is as it may be. Often I have seen it bring out ill. Can any one
tell if a man be good or ill, unless they dwell under the same roof
with him? Abroad, who is so pleasant as Ragon Torr? But at home, every
body there has to look to his wishes."

At this point in the conversation, Margaret entered. She was a tall,
straight girl, with a finely-featured, tranquil face, admirably framed
in heavy coils of hair that were yellow as dawn. Her complexion was
exquisite, and her eyes blue, and cool, and calm. She was still and
passionless in manner, but far from being cold at heart; nevertheless,
her soul, with the purity of crystal, had something also of its sharp
angles; something which might perhaps become hard and cutting. She
carried herself loftily, and walked with an air of decision. Peter
looked at her steadily and said:

"Now, thou hast done ill, Margaret. When a young girl marries, she
must face life for herself; and many are the shoulders that ask for
burdens they can not bear."

"Yes, indeed! And it is all little to my mind," added the mother. "I
had spoken to thee for thy cousin Magnus Hay; and then here comes this
Jan Vedder!"

"Yes, he comes!" and Margaret stood listening, the pink color on her
cheeks spreading to the tips of her ears, and down her white throat.
"Yes, he comes!" and with the words, Jan stood in the open door. A
bright, handsome fellow he was! There was no one in all the Islands
that was half so beautiful.

"Peter," he cried joyfully, "here has happened great news! The
'Sure-Giver' is in the harbor with all her cargo safe. She came in
with the tide. All her planks and nails are lucky."

"That is great news, surely, Jan. But it is ill luck to talk of good
luck. Supper is ready sit down with us."

But Thora spoke no word, and Jan looked at Margaret with the question
in his eyes.

"It means this, and no more, Jan. I have told my father and mother
that thou would make me thy wife."

"That is what I desire, most of all things."

"Then there is little need of long talk. I betroth myself to thee here
f