"But surely I know a mighty lot more than she does. Think of my age and experience, and remember I haven't travelled over half the world with my eyes shut."
"It is not experience of the world, but knowledge of the ways of women you want. It isn't strength, but diplomacy that you need."
"You think she will come round in time, don't you?"
"Oh, yes! I think so, provided you play your cards with skill. She has never said 'no' has she?"
"That isn't the trouble exactly. She has never said 'yes,' and until she says it I'm not safe. You know she comes of age in May."
"Well?"
"You take it very coolly, father," Gervase said, in a tone of irritation. "I don't think it is at all well. Madeline is my only hope. Unless I marry a rich woman I'm stranded—absolutely stranded."
"You've not been getting into deeper debt, I hope?"
"I've not been getting into shallower water, you may bet your bottom dollar on that."
"Am I to understand that you have been anticipating events?"