“I was sure of that,” Ruth said with an affectionate glance.
“How did Clay take your refusal of his son?”
“I think he took it very well. He paid me a compliment as he went away.”
She noticed her father’s look of relief, and it struck her as being significant.
“You have reason to feel flattered,” he said, “because Clay’s apt to make trouble when he is thwarted. For all that, it’s unfortunate your inclinations didn’t coincide with his wishes.”
“Why?” Ruth asked sharply.
Osborne looked amused at her bluntness.
“Well, I really think Aynsley has a good deal to recommend him: money, position, pleasant manners, and an estimable character. Since you’re not satisfied, it looks as if you were hard to please.”
“I have no fault to find with him,” Ruth answered with a blush. “Still, one doesn’t make up a list of the good qualities one’s husband ought to have.”
“It might not be a bad plan,” Osborne said humorously; “anyway, if you could find a man to meet the requirements.” He dropped his bantering manner. “I’m sorry you dismissed Aynsley, but if you are satisfied that it was best, there’s no more to be said.”