"I don't mean a fatuous ass like Codders. But some really fine chap who'll be worthy of you—though I don't think anyone could be that," ended Bill.
"You're rather a dear, Bill."
"But, Bundle, seriously, could you ever? I mean, could you ever bring yourself to?"
"Could I ever bring myself to do what?"
"Marry me. I know I'm awfully thick-headed—but I do love you, Bundle. I'd be your dog or your slave or your anything."
"You're very like a dog," said Bundle. "I like dogs. They're so friendly and faithful and warmhearted. I think that perhaps I could just bring myself to marry you, Bill—with a great effort, you know."
Bill's response to this was to relinquish his grasp of her and recoil violently. He looked at her with amazement in his eyes.
"Bundle—you don't mean it?"
"There's nothing for it," said Bundle. "I see I shall have to relapse into unconsciousness again."
"Bundle—darling—" Bill caught her to him. He was trembling violently. "Bundle—do you really mean it—do you?—you don't know how much I love you."