She went on as if she hadn't heard him.
"Assure her that she is to feel no compunction for what she has done, that you are content to be her loyal, devoted friend to the end of your days."
"But, hang it, Sara, I LOVE her!"
"Don't let her suspect that you are humiliated. On the contrary, give her to understand that you are cleansed and glorified."
"What utter tommy—"
"Wait! Believe me, it is your only chance. You will have to learn some time that you can't ride rough-shod among angels. Think it over, old fellow. You have had a good lesson. Profit by it."
"You mean I'm to sit down and twirl my thumbs and let some other chap snap her up under my very nose? Well, I guess not!"
"Not necessarily. If you take it manfully, she may discover a new interest in you. Don't breathe a word of love to her. Go on as if nothing had happened. Don't forget that I told you in the beginning not to take no for an answer."
He drooped once more, biting his lip. "I don't see how I can ever tell mother that she refused—"
"Why tell her?" she inquired, rising.