She was trying hard to understand, because she had a great deal of faith in Monte and because at this moment she needed him.
"I don't see why being engaged to a man you don't care about need bother you at all," he ran on. "It's the caring that seems to make the trouble—whether you 're engaged or not. I suppose that's what ails Teddy."
She had been watching Monte's eyes; but she turned away for a second.
"Of course," he continued, "you can care—without caring too much. Can't people care in just a friendly sort of way?"
"I should think so, Monte," she answered.
"Then why can't people become engaged—in just a friendly sort of way?"
"It would n't mean very much, would it?"
"Just enough," he said.
He held out his hand.
"Is it a bargain?"