“If you'll explain the joke.”
“You wouldn't understand it. Dear me, what are you so stiff about?”
Merrill brought things to an issue. “Look here, Alice! What's the use of playing fast and loose? I'd like to know where we're at.”
“Would you?”
“Yes, I would. You know all about the arrangement just as well as I do. I haven't pushed you. I've stood back and let you have your good times. Don't you think it's about time for us to talk business?”
“Just as soon as you like, Ned.”
“Well, then, let's announce it.”
“That we're not engaged to be married and never will be! Is that what you want to announce?”
He flushed angrily. “What's the use of talking that way? You know it has been arranged for years.”
“I'm not going through with it. I told Father so. The thing is outrageous,” she flamed.