“Yes, and from observation.”
“Conceit would be too ridiculous in Jack Prettyman with his red head and pug nose.”
“But he is very entertaining. The last time he took me out driving he taught me the language of flowers.”
“I did not know that you go out driving with him,” responded Fred, his face flushing and his eyes shadowed.
“Neither did I know that it was expected of me to inform you. Aunt Sarah sanctioned it and I supposed that sufficient.”
“It is cruel in you to take that tone with me. Oh, Hilda, I feel so uncertain of you! You never appear to believe me in earnest. Promise that you will not go driving with anyone but me.”
“Wouldn’t you think it selfish if I asked the same of you?”
“No, indeed; I promise gladly. Do you agree to it?”
“Yes, I don’t care. Aunt Sarah and I drive out as often as I wish to go.”
“Then you only agree because you sacrifice nothing. Hilda, why are you so cold, so indifferent to me? You keep me always anxious. Promise me—” taking her reluctant hand in his, “promise to be my wife!”