61 The Dove sat down on his cushions and looked at his feet. "You are right," he agreed, "I do not know how, but I will end it, tonight."
62 When he met Yellow Blossom that evening, he looked sombre, and she detected his mood instantly. They filled her jug and started towards her house.
63 "What troubles you?" she asked.
64 "I have received a letter from my father," The Dove told her. "My eldest brother is away on important business. My other brother is not capable of handling the family business, and my father is ill. He wishes me to return home and tend the business, until my brother returns. It will be a year or more.
65 I have already taken my final exams early, and will receive my certificate. I must return home within a couple of days. I wish very much that you would go with me as my mate."
66 "There is still something about you," said Yellow Blossom, "that does not quite ring true. But I know that whatever you tell me, you have a reason for. If you tell me you have to leave, you do. And I know that I could not long endure without your sweet companionship! Yes, I will go with you. I will be your mate!"
67 A Sudden cry made them both jump. "She said yes! She said yes!" the old woman screamed.
68 The Dove and Yellow Blossom had not realized they were standing by her door. They laughed as she continued down her street, knocking on the neighbor's door and telling them the news. They continued on to Yellow Blossom's house, and The Dove asked her father. He granted permission without question.
69 Yellow Blossom's mother produced a mating dress from the bottom of a cupboard. It was like a rainbow of brightly colored lace that danced as she held it up. Yellow Blossom only looked at her and shook her head, took the dress, and held it to her, turning around and around.
70 "I have a friend," announced The Dove, "a Speaker at The University Temple. He would be broken-hearted if he did not perform the ceremony! Would you mind?"
71 "Not at all!" agreed Dancing Turtle.
72 "I will let you know the time tomorrow," said The Dove. "Right now I must hurry off. I have much to do."
73 "That is understandable," the old man agreed.
74 As soon as The Dove was on the street, he found Swift Deer waiting for him. "Well, congratulations, friend!" he cried, "So your mission has been successful!"
75 The Dove looked at him in surprise. "How did you know?" he asked. Then in unison, they both said together, "The old woman!"
76 Laughing joyously they continued down the street. "My good friend," ordered The Dove, "tomorrow I have a very special mission for you! This is what you are to do......"
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