She flushed. "He's not a thing in my life: you needn't worry!"
"That's fine. Dissuade him from putting his arm round you, and calling you his little protegee."
Her colour was still heightened; she kept her eyes on her plate. "It's only his way. He's old enough to be my father!" "Yes, that's what makes it all the more objectionable," said Timothy.
She bit her lip, but said in a sulky voice: "Anyway, it's got nothing to do with you."
"It has everything to do with me. You have plighted your troth to me, my girl."
"It's no use. I can't marry you."
"Then I shall sue you for breach of promise. Why, by the way, have you had this sudden change of heart?"
"It isn't possible. I must have been crazy! I can't think why you want to marry me!"
"Good lord, didn't I tell you? I love you!"
She muttered: "Yes, you told me. That's what I - what I don't understand! Why should you?"