Esterbrook mapped out the details of their bridal tour with careful thoughtfulness . They would visit all the old-world places that Marian wished to see . Afterwards they would come back home . He discussed certain changes he wished to make in the old Elliott mansion to fit it for a young and beautiful mistress . He did most of the planning . Marian was content to listen in happy silence . Afterwards she had proposed this walk to the Cove . `` What particular object of charity have you found at the Cove now ? '' asked Esterbrook , with lazy interest , as they walked along . `` Mrs. Barrett 's little Bessie is very ill with fever , '' answered Marian . Then , catching his anxious look , she hastened to add , `` It is nothing infectious -- some kind of a slow , sapping variety . There is no danger , Esterbrook . '' `` I was not afraid for myself , '' he replied quietly . `` My alarm was for you . You are too precious to me , Marian , for me to permit you to risk health and life , if it were dangerous . What a Lady Bountiful you are to those people at the Cove . When we are married you must take me in hand and teach me your creed of charity . I 'm afraid I 've lived a rather selfish life . You will change all that , dear . You will make a good man of me . ''
`` You are that now , XXXXX , '' she said softly .
Barrett Bessie Bountiful Cove Elliott Esterbrook Marian mansion planning walk