"Assume I do. No one likes losing bets, but would you seriously object to the consequences?"
Joyce gave me the wonderful dawn of a smile before replying.
"I've never given the matter a thought," she answered.
"Subconsciously?" I suggested in a manner worthy of the Seraph.
She shook her head.
"Well, give it a thought now," I begged.
"It wouldn't make much difference whether I objected or not."
"If you honestly object, if you think the whole thing's a joke in questionable taste, I'll take the ring off here and now."
Joyce began to unbutton her glove, then stopped and looked at me. I suppose my voice must have shown I was speaking seriously; her eyes were soft and kind.
"I think any girl 'ud be very lucky...." she began. I bowed, and as I did so an imp of mischief took possession of her tongue. "...very lucky indeed—to engage your roving affection."