He gave her such details as he had obtained, then added:
‘There are two of my companions fallen in the battle. I ought to think myself a lucky fellow, Marian. What?’
‘You are better fitted to fight your way, Jasper.’
‘More of a brute, you mean.’
‘You know very well I don’t. You have more energy and more intellect.’
‘Well, it remains to be seen how I shall come out when I am weighted with graver cares than I have yet known.’
She looked at him inquiringly, but said nothing.
‘I have made up my mind about our affairs,’ he went on presently. ‘Marian, if ever we are to be married, it must be now.’
The words were so unexpected that they brought a flush to her cheeks and neck.
‘Now?’