"What is there so wonderful in it?" he growled. "I could look after you sometimes, and have a chat about one thing and another."
"And show me her, I suppose, to get my opinion and my blessing?"
"Well, what if I did? You and I have consulted each other about everything we have done for years.... I cannot for the life of me see why it should be so monstrous in this case."
She felt something of patronising pity for him. She patted his hand and said:
"I don't think, my dear boy, that I am quite the right person to assist in your courtship."
"Good Lord! What next? You talk quite theatrically to-day. You are evidently suffering from swelled head. Yes, swelled head, I say! You are trying to get a rise out of me, and I don't like it, just now especially."
She laughed and stretched herself. How petty it all was, and how ridiculous! How little she cared! And why should she care?
Alone--to be alone with him. That was the only thing that mattered in the whole world.
"You would rather not, then?"
She silently shook her head.