"I am not irritated about anything. As for Helen, I care not a rap one way or the other."
Winchie had finished. He kissed his father, then his mother good night, and went upstairs. Richard came out of a deep study to say, "It's a pity Gallatin isn't free and here—if Helen comes."
"It would have made a good match," said Courtney judiciously. "A splendid living for Helen."
"I wasn't thinking of Gallatin's wealth," protested Richard, reddening. Then he laughed, "At least, not altogether."
"The living's the main point in marriage."
"What an unpleasant mood you're in."
"I? I never felt more amiable."
"Have I said anything to offend you?"
"Not a thing." She rose languidly. "You're still the model—not a single redeeming fault."
She stretched herself with slow, lazy grace. "But you," said he, "are a bundle of redeeming faults and vagaries—a bouquet of them." And he was about to kiss her.