"You held your hand before your face to shade your eyes."
"So I did. But, seriously, Ruthy, I realize now that all my old feeling for you has never died. Your voice alone revives the memories of those pleasant years. Why part again? It might be forever."
"A thousand reasons."
"But no good ones. What better test of my affection could you want? I don't ask to see your face. Your voice, your words, yourself, and old-time memories are more than enough. Come. Say yes."
"No. Never in the world! Suppose, when you could really see me, there came regrets. What a position for a woman! Oh, no! Never that!"
"Don't say 'never.'"
"Is this a habit of yours—making love in the dark to women you don't know? You should have a guardian."
"Be that guardian!"
"Thank you, I have other occupations."
Here came a silence. The thoughts of Cyrus, whatever they might be, were interrupted by Ruth: