It suddenly struck him that it was after all absurd that he should be confiding in any one at such a stage, and his tongue stumbled.
But he had gone too far for retreat.

Lord Maxwell sprang up and seized him by the arms.
"You are in love, sir! Out with it!" "I have seen the only woman in the world I have ever wished to marry," said Aldous, flushing, but with deliberation.

"Whether she will ever have me, I have no idea.

But I can conceive no greater happiness than to win her.

And as I want _you_, grandfather, to do something for her and for me, it seemed to me I had no right to keep my feelings to myself.
Besides, I am not accustomed to--to--" His voice wavered a little.