She seemed to be doubtful.
“What! Nonsense! And you’re not too old to be bullied and coaxed and petted——”
“Yes, I am.”
“And you’re not too old to pose for me——”
She grew pink and looked down at the submerged goldfish. And, keeping her eyes there:
“I wanted to ask you,” she said, “how much longer you think you would require me—that way.”
There was a silence. Then she looked at him out of her frank grey eyes.
“You know I’ll do what you wish,” she said. “And 309 I know it is quite all right....” She smiled at him. “I belong to you: you made me.... And you know all about me. So you ought to use me as you wish.”
“You don’t want to pose?” he said.
“Yes, except——”