"What did she say?" inquired Tom.
"She said no!"
"Perhaps she was offended by the comparison to so humble a flower," said Seddon.
"It may have been so," said the Professor. "I then asked her a question in relation to the annexation of our destinies."
"What did she say?" asked Toney.
"She said no! I then asked her again in more unequivocal terms. I told her that I was seeking for domestic bliss and connubial felicity, and earnestly inquired if she would not assist me in the search."
"What was her reply?" asked Tom.
"She said no! And this time the dovelike Dora laughed in my face."
"After having answered no three times?" said Tom.
"Three negatives do not make an affirmative, Mr. Seddon, especially when the final negation to your very serious and sentimental proposal is accompanied by laughter. I was mortified and angry, and so I hurried home——"