Thomas Hardy

“ He stopped from exhaustion produced by the intense concentration of his mind upon the weary subject, and looked anxiously at his son.
'Yes, I will,' said Edward.
'But I am going to see her of the Great House this morning,' the farmer went on, his thoughts reverting to the old subject. 'I must know the rights of the matter, the when and the where. I don't like seeing her, but I'd rather talk to her than the steward. I wonder what she'll say to me.'
The younger man knew exactly what she would say. ”

“ Springrove, the houses are burnt: we'll let them go: trouble no more about them.'
His mind was already made up. He said calmly, 'Father, when you are talking to Miss Aldclyffe, mention to her that I have asked Adelaide if she is willing to marry me next Christmas. She is interested in my union with Adelaide, and the news will be welcome to her.'
'And yet she can be iron with reference to me and her property,' the farmer murmured. ”

“ It would simplify matters very much, if you were to walk up to church wi' her one of these mornings, get the thing done, and go on liven here as we are. If you don't I must get a house all the sooner. ”