He declines because the alternative of staying where he is is endurable.

I propose that we substitute another alternative.

Drink your wine, De la Borne.

This is a chill house of yours, and one loses courage here.

Drink your wine, and think of what I have said." Cecil set down his glass empty.
"Well," he said, "what other alternative do you propose ?" "Can't you see ?" Forrest answered.