"Thank you. I couldn't expect more. But you must allow somebody in that capacity, Mr. Copley."
"Must I? Depends on how much Dolly likes somebody."
"That is just what I want to find out about myself," said the young man eagerly. "Then you would not put any hindrance?"
"In the way of Dolly's happiness? Not if I know it. But that's got to be proved."
"You know, Mr. Copley, she would be happy with me."
"How do I know that? I know nothing of the kind. It all depends on Dolly, I tell you. What does she think about it?"
"That's just what I don't know and cannot find out. I have no chance. I cannot get sight of her."
"Her mother's sick, you see. It keeps Dolly at home."
"My mother has proposed several times to take Miss Copley out with her, and she will not go."
"She's very kind, and we are grateful; but Dolly won't leave her mother."