"He was; or rather he was in love with being in love. But because you want Miss Van Buren, out of pure contrariness he thinks now that he wants her. Beware of her kindness. If you should be deluded by it into proposing, she'd send you about your business, and perhaps accept the other man because she was wretched, and didn't quite realize what was the matter."
"You're a gloomy prophetess," I said miserably.
"You won't take my advice?"
"No. I can't do that. I must do the best I can for myself in some other way."
"There isn't any other."
"I shall try."
"Well, promise me you won't propose for a fortnight, anyhow; or until I give you leave."
"We—all—always—do whatever you wish us to, extraordinary lady. I wonder why?"
"You must go on wondering. But in the meantime I will—"
"You will——"