"Yes." Mr. Ely looked the other straight in the face, which was a trick he had when there was something which he particularly wished to say. Then he slipped his arm through Mr. Ash's, and drew that gentleman aside. "She's a fine girl, Ash--finer than I thought she was. Finest girl in England, in the world, by George she is!"
Mr. Ash was a little surprised at his friend's enthusiasm. But he let no sign of this escape him.
"She's a good girl too, my boy."
"Best girl ever yet I came across."
"And she's true--true as a die."
"Truer--truest girl ever yet I saw."
"And when she says she loves a man----" Mr. Ash paused. He glanced at his friend. Mr. Ely gave no sign. "When she says she loves a man, you may be quite certain that she does."
Mr. Ely looked down at his toes, then up at Mr. Ash.
"I've bought the ring."
"What! The wedding-ring!"