Contrary Mary

Not to every woman would I dare offer what I have to give---but you are

different from other women. From the night when you first met me

frankly with your brave young head up and your eyes shining, I have

known that you were different from the rest--a woman braver and

stronger, a woman asking more of life than softness.

And now, will you fight with me, shoulder to shoulder? And win?

Somehow I feel that you will say "Yes." Is that the right attitude for

a lover? But surely I can see a little way into your heart. Your

letter let me see.

If I seem over-confident, forgive me. But I know what I want for

myself. I know what I want for you. I am not the Roger Poole of the

Tower Rooms, beaten and broken. I am Roger Poole of the Garden,

marching triumphantly in tune with the universe.

As I write, I have a vision upon me of a little white house not far

from the little white church in the circle of young pines--a house with

orchards sweeping up all pink behind it in April, and with violets in

the borders of the walk in January, and with roses from May until

December.

And I can see you in that little house. I shall see you in it until

you say something which will destroy that vision. But you won't

destroy it. Surely some day you will hear the mocking-birds sing in

the moonlight--as I am hearing them, alone, to-night.

I need you, I want you, and I hope that it is not a selfish cry. For

your letter has told me that you, too, are wanting--what? Is it Love,

Mary dear, and Life?

ROGER.