But, as the question was now presented to her, it was impossible that she should consent to wait.

To have given such consent would have been tantamount to receiving him as her lover.

She was therefore forced to be cruel.
"It will be of no avail to postpone my answer when I know what it must be.

Why should there be suspense ?" "You mean that it is impossible that you should love me ?" "Not in that way, Will." "And why not ?" Then there was a pause.

"But I am a fool to ask such a question as that, and I should be worse than a fool were I to press it.