"Do you think I ought to marry him—brother?"
Frankly, I was a good deal disappointed at her conduct. I did not see that there could be a moment's hesitation about her answer, especially after all she had said to me about the man. And this feeling may perhaps have shewn in my manner.
"I could do no less than tell you of the proposal, considering that Devinsky believes in the relationship between us," I said. "But I don't see how you, knowing everything, can look to me for the judgment I should have had to give were that relationship real and I actually head of the family."
This stilted reply seemed to please her, for she glanced curiously at me and then smiled, as I thought almost merrily, or even mischievously, as she replied:—
"A proposal of marriage is a very serious thing, Alexis."
"Yes, and so people often find it."
"Major Devinsky is very rich, and very influential. He is right when he says that his wife would have a very good position in one way in Moscow."
"I wish her much happiness with him," I retorted, grimly.
"He is very handsome, too."
I said nothing. She disappointed and vexed me.