"I'm not for sale!" said Ella, "even on futures!"
Then he got angry and criticised her judgement.
"It's a pity, isn't it," she said, "for me to have such poor judgment—and for you to have to abide by it!"
"I won't take your decision," said John. "You're only a child yet. In two years' time you'll be wiser. I'll ask you again then."
"All right," said Ella. "I'll answer you again then."
John went away, angry, but determined.
Arnold was less categorical.
"I've no right to say a word," he began, and then said it. Mostly he dilated on her beauty and goodness and his overmastering affection for her.
"Are you offering marriage?" she inquired, rather quizzically.
"Why yes—of course!" said he, "only—only I've nothing to offer."