“Yes; I will make it do....I know, I think, what I love you for. You are nice-looking, of course; but I didn’t mean for that. It is because you are so docile and gentle.”
“Those are not quite the correct qualities for a man to be loved for,” said Stephen, in rather a dissatisfied tone of self-criticism. “Well, never mind. I must ask your father to allow us to be engaged directly we get indoors. It will be for a long time.”
“I like it the better....Stephen, don’t mention it till to-morrow.”
“Why?”
“Because, if he should object—I don’t think he will; but if he should—we shall have a day longer of happiness from our ignorance....Well, what are you thinking of so deeply?”
“I was thinking how my dear friend Knight would enjoy this scene. I wish he could come here.”
“You seem very much engrossed with him,” she answered, with a jealous little toss. “He must be an interesting man to take up so much of your attention.”
“Interesting!” said Stephen, his face glowing with his fervour; “noble, you ought to say.”
“Oh yes, yes; I forgot,” she said half satirically. “The noblest man in England, as you told us last night.”
“He is a fine fellow, laugh as you will, Miss Elfie.”