But I want to hear you say it -- my darling -- my darling ! '' Leslie said something in a very low and tremulous voice . Their hands and lips met ; it was life 's supreme moment for them and as they stood there in the old garden , with its many years of love and delight and sorrow and glory , he crowned her shining hair with the red , red rose of a love triumphant . Anne and Gilbert returned presently , accompanied by Captain Jim . Anne lighted a few sticks of driftwood in the fireplace , for love of the pixy flames , and they sat around it for an hour of good fellowship . `` When I sit looking at a driftwood fire it 's easy to believe I 'm young again , '' said Captain Jim . `` Can you read futures in the fire , Captain Jim ? '' asked Owen . Captain Jim looked at them all affectionately and then back again at Leslie 's vivid face and glowing eyes . `` I do n't need the fire to read your futures , '' he said . `` I see happiness for all of you -- all of you -- for Leslie and Mr. Ford -- and the doctor here and Mistress Blythe -- and Little Jem -- and children that ai n't born yet but will be . Happiness for you all -- though , mind you , I reckon you 'll have your troubles and worries and sorrows , too . They 're bound to come -- and no house , whether it 's a palace or a little house of dreams , can bar 'em out . But they wo n't get the better of you if you face 'em TOGETHER with love and trust . You can weather any storm with them two for compass and pilot . '' The old man rose suddenly and placed one hand on Leslie 's head and one on Anne 's . `` Two good , sweet women , '' he said . `` True and faithful and to be depended on . Your husbands will have honor in the gates because of you -- your children will rise up and call you blessed in the years to come . '' There was a strange solemnity about the little scene .
Anne and Leslie bowed XXXXX those receiving a benediction .
about as at for if in on to whether with