"I am in earnest," Merryon said. "I can't keep you here for the hot weather. It would probably kill you."
"What of that?" she said.
He ignored her frivolity.
"It can't be done," he said. "So you must make the best of it."
"Meaning you don't want me?" she demanded, unexpectedly.
"Not for the hot weather," said Merryon.
She sprang suddenly to her feet.
"I won't go, Billikins!" she declared, fiercely, "I just won't!"
He looked at her, sternly resolute.
"You must go," he said, with unwavering decision.