Passing acquaintances called her cold and proud . Only the privileged few knew the rich depths of womanly tenderness in her nature . Esterbrook thought that he fully appreciated her . As he had walked homeward the night of their betrothal , he had reviewed with unconscious criticism his mental catalogue of Marian 's graces and good qualities , admitting , with supreme satisfaction , that there was not one thing about her that he could wish changed . This afternoon , under the acacias , they had been planning about their wedding . There was no one to consult but themselves . They were to be married early in September and then go abroad . 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 .
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