"No, I can't think," I said, rather anxiously.
"I would have you propose to Monny."
"Oh—by Jove, Mrs. East!"
"Why—don't you admire her?"
"But of course. She's irresistible. Only she's so horribly rich. And besides, she doesn't think of me in that way."
"You can't be sure. Now, Lord Ernest, I'm going to whisper you a secret. I believe—I really do—that Monny would be glad if you'd propose. If I were in your place, if I liked her, I would do so as soon as possible. It might save her from humiliation—from a great trouble."
Being a duffer, I could only say once again, "By Jove!"
CHAPTER XIII
AN UNDERGROUND PROPOSAL