“Not at all. So, now don’t turn away. I hope I have not offended you.”

“Oh, dear me, no; but still, at the same time, I think it would be very indiscreet on my part to receive a present from you.”

“By no means. I shall be very much hurt if you refuse. Nay, more, I won’t take a refusal.”

“For a gentleman who is so wanting in confidence your tone is somewhat dictatorial,” said she, with a merry laugh.

“It is for you to dictate, and for me to obey,” returned he.

“Very good—​very good, indeed. I quite agree with you.”

“If you agree with me, I shall consider the question settled.”

“What question?”

“The wing.”

“Oh, is that all?”