I had news of Harry, I said, gravely.

She merely looked interested and asked me when he was coming.
"I'm afraid he will never come," said I.
"If he does not come, then I can stay here with you ?" Her eyes betrayed a quiver of anxiety.

For the life of me I could not avoid the ironical.
"If you will condescend to dwell as a member of my family beneath my humble roof." The irony was lost on her.

She uttered a joyous little cry and held out both her hands to me.

Her eyes danced.
"Oh, I am glad he is not coming.