A Pair of Patient Lovers

A breezy river cruise down the St. Lawrence becomes the backdrop for a charming encounter between a long‑married couple and a handsome young clergyman. The narrator, recalling a past honeymoon trip, offers the newcomer a glimpse of the scenery and a playful exchange of cards, while his wife, Mrs. March, watches the scene with a quiet, amused impatience that hints at deeper curiosity.

Mrs. March soon turns the conversation toward a mysterious mother‑daughter pair on board, suggesting they hold the key to the clergyman’s sudden appearance. Her speculative whispers and the couple’s gentle teasing create a lively mix of humor, social observation, and a hint of romance. As the boat’s rhythm carries them toward dinner, listeners are invited to share in the subtle dance of intrigue and affection that unfolds on the river’s winding course.