“You! Why?”
“Because ... I’m lonely. Look here, Margot, I want you. I only realized how much I needed you after you went away—how much you mean to me. I say, Margot, I suppose I’m a stiff, cold sort of a chap. I can’t do the sentimental stuff. I can’t make pretty speeches, but I really do care for you.”
“As a sister?”
“No, an awful lot more than that! I can’t do without you, dear. I know it now. I knew it the moment I’d thought I’d lost you. Don’t tell me I’ve lost you, Margot.”
He leaned forward, staring anxiously into her eyes. She sat quite still, her breath coming fast.
“Marry me, Margot,” he faltered, “Me!”
She seemed made of ice. “That’s very kind of you,” she said.
“Not at all, Margot. Believe me, I’m not kind. I’m humble. I’m pleading. I’ll get down on my knees if you like.”
“No, please don’t.”
“Look here....” He suddenly leaned forward. He took a handful of her shining hair and twisted it into a great golden rope, then wound it around her white throat.