`` Oh , Rilla , '' sobbed Miranda , when they had reached sanctuary . `` I 'm so unhappy . I ca n't begin to tell you how unhappy I am . Truly , my heart is breaking . '' Rilla sat down on the lounge beside her . Sir Wilfrid squatted on his haunches before them , with his impertinent pink tongue stuck out , and listened . `` What is the trouble , Miranda ? '' `` Joe is coming home tonight on his last leave . I had a letter from him on Saturday -- he sends my letters in care of Bob Crawford , you know , because of father -- and , oh , Rilla , he will only have four days -- he has to go away Friday morning -- and I may never see him again . '' `` Does he still want you to marry him ? '' asked Rilla . `` Oh , yes . He implored me in his letter to run away and be married . But I can not do that , Rilla , not even for Joe . My only comfort is that I will be able to see him for a little while tomorrow afternoon . Father has to go to Charlottetown on business . At least we will have one good farewell talk . But oh -- afterwards -- why , Rilla , I know father wo n't even let me go to the station Friday morning to see Joe off . '' `` Why in the world do n't you and Joe get married tomorrow afternoon at home ? '' demanded Rilla .
Miranda swallowed a sob in such amazement XXXXX she almost choked .
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