Peter whistled when he heard what I had to say . `` Of course I 'll do it , old man , '' he said obligingly . `` But I warn you I do n't think it will be much use . Marian is n't the sort of girl to open up a correspondence in such a fashion . However , I 'll do the best I can for you . '' `` Do . Tell her I 'm a respectable fellow with no violent bad habits and all that . I 'm in earnest , Peter . I want to make that girl 's acquaintance , and this seems the only way at present . I ca n't get off just now for a trip east . Explain all this , and use your cousinly influence in my behalf if you possess any . '' Peter grinned . `` It 's not the most graceful job in the world you are putting on me , Curtis , '' he said . `` I do n't mind owning up now that I was pretty far gone on Marian myself two years ago . It 's all over now , but it was bad while it lasted . Perhaps Marian will consider your request more favourably if I put it in the light of a favour to myself . She must feel that she owes me something for wrecking my life . '' Peter grinned again and looked at the one photo he had contrived to rescue from the fire . It was a pretty , snub-nosed little girl . She would never have consoled me for the loss of Marian Lindsay , but every man to his taste .
In due time XXXXX sought me out to give me his cousin 's answer .
Curtis Lindsay Marian Peter fellow fire influence photo taste use