It never occurred to Mary Isabel that the doctor meant anything but friendship ; and if it had occurred to the doctor , he did not think there would be much use in saying so . Mary Isabel was too hopelessly under Louisa 's thumb . She might keep tryst below the firs occasionally -- so long as Louisa did n't know -- but to no farther lengths would she dare go . Besides , the doctor was n't quite sure that he really wanted anything more . Mary Isabel was a sweet little woman , but Dr. Hamilton had been a bachelor so long that it would be very difficult for him to get out of the habit ; so difficult that it was hardly worth while trying when such an obstacle as Louisa Irving 's tyranny loomed in the way . So he never tried to make love to Mary Isabel , though he probably would have if he had thought it of any use . This does not sound very romantic , of course , but when a man is fifty , romance , while it may be present in the fruit , is assuredly absent in blossom . `` I suppose you wo n't be going to the induction of my nephew Thursday week ? '' said the doctor in the course of the conversation . `` No . Louisa will not permit it . I had hoped , '' said Mary Isabel with a sigh , as she braided some silvery shore-grasses nervously together , `` that when old Mr. Moody went away she would go back to the church here . And I think she would if -- if -- '' `` If Jim had n't come in Mr. Moody 's place , '' finished the doctor with his jolly laugh . Mary Isabel coloured prettily . `` It is not because he is your nephew , doctor . It is because -- because -- '' `` Because he is the nephew of my brother who was on the other side in that ancient church fracas ? Bless you , I understand . What a good hater your sister is ! Such a tenacity in holding bitterness from one generation to another commands admiration of a certain sort . As for Jim , he 's a nice little chap , and he is coming to live with me until the manse is repaired . ''
`` I am sure you will find XXXXX pleasant , '' said Mary Isabel primly .
Because Besides So for if in of that to under