`` She is so small -- and sensitive . The others can fight their way -- but the world will hurt HER . Oh , John , I do n't know what you and she are going to do . You both need me so much . But keep her close to you -- keep her close to you . '' These had been almost her last words except a few unforgettable ones for him alone . And it was this child whom Mrs. Davis had coolly announced her intention of taking from him . He sat up straight and looked at Mrs. Davis . In spite of the worn dressing gown and the frayed slippers there was something about him that made Mrs. Davis feel a little of the old reverence for `` the cloth '' in which she had been brought up . After all , there WAS a certain divinity hedging a minister , even a poor , unworldly , abstracted one . `` I thank you for your kind intentions , Mrs. Davis , '' said Mr. Meredith with a gentle , final , quite awful courtesy , `` but I can not give you my child . '' Mrs. Davis looked blank . She had never dreamed of his refusing . `` Why , Mr. Meredith , '' she said in astonishment . `` You must be cr -- you ca n't mean it . You must think it over -- think of all the advantages I can give her . '' `` There is no need to think it over , Mrs. Davis . It is entirely out of the question . All the worldly advantages it is in your power to bestow on her could not compensate for the loss of a father 's love and care . I thank you again -- but it is not to be thought of . ''
Disappointment angered Mrs. XXXXX beyond the power of old habit to control .
Davis John Meredith Mr. father gown need others reverence something