“Mr Green wished me to ask the question—or another—”
“Arthur, don’t say it,” said Graeme, sitting down and turning pale. “Tell me that you did not expect this.”
“I cannot say that I was altogether taken by surprise. He meant to speak to you himself, but his courage failed him. He is very much in earnest, Graeme, and very much afraid.”
“Arthur,” said his sister, earnestly, “you do not think this is my fault? If I had known it should never have come to this.”
“He must have an answer now.”
“Yes, you will know what to say to him. I am sorry.”
“But, Graeme, you should take time to think. In the eyes of the world this would be a good match for you.”
Graeme rose impatiently.
“What has the world to do with it? Tell me, Arthur, that you do not think me to blame for this.”
“I do not think you intended to give Mr Green encouragement. But I cannot understand why you should be so surprised. I am not.”