“What nonsense!” she snapped. “What utter nonsense! A schoolboy talking such nonsense. Marriage indeed! You know as well as I do that you’ve never thought about such a step.”
“But I have,” said Michael. “Very often, as it happens.”
“Then you mustn’t go out with Lily again. Why, it’s worse than I thought. I’m horrified.”
“Do you mean I’m never to come here again?” Michael asked in despair.
“Come occasionally,” said Mrs. Haden. “But only occasionally.”
“All right. Thanks,” said Michael, feeling stunned by this unexpected rebuke. “Good night, Mrs. Haden.”
In the hall he found Doris.
“Well?” she asked.
“Your mother says I’m only to come occasionally.”
“Oh, that won’t last,” said Doris encouragingly.