He shrugged:
"Yes, I'll ask it if you like."
To keep her composure became difficult:
"It is your affair, Mr. Quarren—if you still care to preserve our friendship."
"Would a kiss shatter it?"
She smiled:
"A look, a word, the quiver of an eyelash is enough."
"It doesn't seem to be very solidly founded, does it?"
"Friendship is the frailest thing in the world—and the mightiest.... I am waiting for your decision."
He walked up to her again, and she steeled herself, not knowing what to expect.