"I am glad," he said honestly. He glanced around as she led him to the parlor and then sat down after she sat down. He licked his lips nervously and waited until she was settled before deciding to cut to the chase. "I know it came as a surprise to you, my calling on you today... But I have been giving a matter a lot of thinking and I feel it's best just to be out with it." He cleared his throat and fidgeted with his hands. "Would you... do the honor of becoming my wife?" There, it was out. "I will understand if you say no, I realize this is sudden and that we scarcely know one another, but I thought about how you said your parents wished you to marry and I thought I could present the solution to your problem. You see, I am in need of a wife and you, Miss Blythe, are so very smart and lovely, and it would be an honor to be your husband, even if it is just in name." God, now he felt like he was babbling.