'Yes; and when I wouldn't be about you would nearly cry your eyes out. You may laugh, but women always get fonder of their husbands. Look here, Stella, you said "yes" once before; you'll have to say it again and stick to it. The last time I spoke to you you said you would think over it. You've had plenty of time. You're close on twenty-three. A girl should be married by that time.'
'Or not at all. You seem to forget that many women never marry.'
'But you're not one of them. Now, Stella, look me in the face and tell me, do you intend to be an old maid?'
'Oh, one doesn't intend it; but sometimes circumstances are more merciful than one's intentions.'
'Has any fellow come along that you care for more than me?'
'N—no.'
'Thank the Lord for that! All you know have been in love with you already—Willy Stein, Wigram, Lindsay, Andrew——'
'Ted, you really are too absurd! Don't you think it is wrong to trifle away the precious moments that never come back again?'
'Ah, yes, they do. When I've been with you the time comes back over and over again. Besides, Stella, how can you call it trifling when I ask you to marry me? Will you?'
'No, thank you.'