When a minute or two had passed, she said: "We're a pair of horrid, selfish things!"
"How so?"
"We're so wrapped up in happiness—at least, you are—that we have no thought for poor Doris, and poor, poor Teddy. Oh, what is to be done about them? … Why don't you answer?"
"Because it's a problem, dear girl. We know it's simply want of money that's holding Teddy back, but even a fellow with plenty can't say to his friend: 'Look here, old cock, take this cheque and run away and get engaged!'"
"Certainly not! There's no need to be indelicate. Couldn't you put the cheque in his stocking at Christmas—or something?"
"While I am doubtful as to whether Teddy hangs up his sock, I know he's too sensitive and proud to accept a money gift, however delicately offered. As a matter of fact, Marjorie, I've tried—wanted him to take a quarter of the diamonds as a sort of souvenir, you know—"
"You dear, kind, generous man!" exclaimed Marjorie….
Order being restored—
"My only hope," he went on, "is that Teddy will, somehow, lose his head and take the plunge, and then it would be a wedding present. One can't reject a wedding present, can one?"
"No—though every one of my sisters has fervently wished one could. And I could give him a wedding present, too!"