Cornelia stood in the doorway.
"You desire to speak to me, Wilfrid?
And in private ?" "I didn't wish to congratulate you publicly, that's all.

I know it's rather against your taste.

We'll shut the door, and sit down, if you don't mind.

Yes, I congratulate you with all my heart," he said, placing a chair for Cornelia.
"May I ask, wherefore ?" "You don't think marriage a matter for congratulation ?" "Sometimes: as the case may be." "Well, it's not marriage yet.

I congratulate you on your offer." "I thank you." "You accept it, of course." "I reject it, certainly." After this preliminary passage, Wilfrid remained silent long enough for Cornelia to feel uneasy.
"I want you to congratulate me also," he recommenced.