'And then?'
'Oh, then you must keep an eye on Cupid at his weeding.'
'Stella, my belovedest, don't encourage yourself to be cruel. It is a taste that grows on people, like eating opium and stealing umbrellas.'
'That reminds me. Shouldn't I ask you how many of the commandments you have kept, if any?'
'Certainly not. It is the most dangerous habit a woman can contract, that of asking questions, more especially when she is going to be married.'
'Oh, how boldly and brazenly you pronounce the word! How glad I am that it cannot be for some time!'
'Not so very long, thank God! Let me count on your fingers.'
'Oh no—no, please,' she said, suddenly drawing her hand away.
'But why?'
'Superstition!'