You're really turning me away--as if I were a dishonest foreman!--because in my opinion it would be a very excellent thing for her and for myself if Miss Bewery would consent to marry me.

That's the plain truth." Ransford allowed himself to take a long and steady look at Bryce.

The thing was done now, and his dismissed assistant seemed to be taking it quietly--and Ransford's curiosity was aroused.
"I can't make you out!" he exclaimed.

"I don't know whether you're the most cynical young man I ever met, or whether you're the most obtuse--" "Not the last, anyway," interrupted Bryce.

"I assure you of that!" "Can't you see for yourself, then, man, that the girl doesn't want you!" said Ransford.