The text, or rather the occasion for what I am about to say on the
subject of marriage, was this:--
About a week ago, a young woman of twenty-six (she said twenty-six,
so I am sure about her age,) came to me in regard to her health; and
after the professional conversation was finished, we fell into a
general and pleasant chat.
She was delightfully frank, and said, while we were discussing the
ever fruitful subject of matrimony,--
"I wish I was little."
"That is too bad," I replied; "I have been admiring your grand,
queenly proportions ever since you came in; and now you spoil it all
by showing that you are not grateful."
"I can't help it; I wish I didn't weigh more than eighty pounds, and
wasn't more than four and a half feet high."
"I am shocked! Do tell me what makes you wish so?"
"To be frank with you, the reason is just this: Men are so fond of
saying, 'My little wife.'"
I laughed, thinking it was intended as a bright speech; but her
flushed face assured me that, instead, she was uttering her very
heart.
"Go on," I said, "tell me your thoughts."
"My thoughts are just these; and I believe they are the thoughts of
all unmarried marriageable women. I long for nothing this side of
heaven as I do to bury all my uncertainties and anxieties in the
love of a husband. Eagerly would I make any sacrifice to secure this
precious treasure. But I fear there is nothing left for me but to be
sneered at as an old maid. So while I might otherwise be grateful
for what you choose to call my queenly proportions, I can only wish
I was one of the little women whom men seem to fancy."
I shall not tell you any more of this conversation, and my friend
will excuse this much, as a text for my little sermon. Only she and
I will know to whom this refers.
I wonder if it is improper to speak plainly about what so many are
thinking of.
I will venture a little. Now don't take on airs and turn up your
noses. My hair is of a color which might introduce me to you in the
character of father. I shall speak very plainly. It cannot
compromise anybody, for, as I told you, this is all private and
confidential.