"No—be quiet! You know what I mean. What were we talking about? Oh! I was going to say that the most fascinating thing about you always was that ironical way of yours."
"Have I an ironical way? You were going to tell me something more about the fancy ball."
"I don't care for it. I would rather talk about you."
"And I prefer the ball. It's a fresher topic—to me."
"Very well, then. But this I will say. No matter how happy you should be, I should always want you to keep that tone of persiflage. You've no idea how perfectly intoxicating it is."
"Oh yes, I have. It seems to have turned the loveliest and wisest head in the world."
"Oh, do you really think so? I would give anything if you did."
"What?"
"Think I was pretty," she pleaded, with full eyes. "Do you?"
"No, but I think you are wise. Fifty per cent, of truth—it's a large average in compliments. What are you going to wear?"