But oh , I never felt so worried over anything in my life as I do over this . It 's spoiling the spring -- it 's spoiling everything . '' One evening Gilbert abruptly proposed that they go down and see Captain Jim . With a sinking heart Anne agreed , and they set forth . Two weeks of kind sunshine had wrought a miracle in the bleak landscape over which Gilbert 's crow had flown . The hills and fields were dry and brown and warm , ready to break into bud and blossom ; the harbor was laughter-shaken again ; the long harbor road was like a gleaming red ribbon ; down on the dunes a crowd of boys , who were out smelt fishing , were burning the thick , dry sandhill grass of the preceding summer . The flames swept over the dunes rosily , flinging their cardinal banners against the dark gulf beyond , and illuminating the channel and the fishing village . It was a picturesque scene which would at other times have delighted Anne 's eyes ; but she was not enjoying this walk . Neither was Gilbert . Their usual good-comradeship and Josephian community of taste and viewpoint were sadly lacking . Anne 's disapproval of the whole project showed itself in the haughty uplift of her head and the studied politeness of her remarks . Gilbert 's mouth was set in all the Blythe obstinacy , but his eyes were troubled . He meant to do what he believed to be his duty ; but to be at outs with Anne was a high price to pay . Altogether , both were glad when they reached the light -- and remorseful that they should be glad . Captain Jim put away the fishing net upon which he was working , and welcomed them joyfully . In the searching light of the spring evening he looked older than Anne had ever seen him . His hair had grown much grayer , and the strong old hand shook a little . But his blue eyes were clear and steady , and the staunch soul looked out through them gallant and unafraid . Captain Jim listened in amazed silence while Gilbert said what he had come to say . Anne , who knew how the old man worshipped Leslie , felt quite sure that he would side with her , although she had not much hope that this would influence Gilbert .
She was therefore surprised XXXXX measure when Captain Jim , slowly and sorrowfully , but unhesitatingly , gave it as his opinion that Leslie should be told .
In at beyond of over that through to upon with