The sun just boiled down on that roof and we were nearly melted . We were dreadfully thirsty , and the heat made our heads ache , and I could see my muslin dress fading before my very eyes . As for the roses on my best hat -- but that was too harrowing to think about . Then we saw a welcome sight -- Isaac Appleby coming through the yard with a hoe over his shoulder . He had probably been working in his field at the back of the house . I never thought I should have been so glad to see him . `` Isaac , oh , Isaac ! '' I called joyfully , leaning over as far as I dared . Isaac looked up in amazement at me and Melissa craning our necks over the edge of the roof . Then he saw the dog and took in the situation . The creature actually grinned . `` Wo n't you call off your dog and let us get down , Isaac ? '' I said pleadingly . Isaac stood and reflected for a moment or two . Then he came slowly forward and , before we realized what he was going to do , he took that ladder down and laid it on the ground . `` Isaac Appleby , what do you mean ? '' demanded Melissa wrathfully . Isaac folded his arms and looked up . It would be hard to say which face was the more determined , his or the dog 's . But Isaac had the advantage in point of looks , I will say that for him .
`` I mean that you two women will stay up on that roof until one of you agrees XXXXX marry me , '' said Isaac solemnly .
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