"In principle it would undoubtedly be right.

But it is a very serious matter, my dear boy.

It means your whole life and future.

Have you"-- he hesitated, with an affectation of delicacy--"have you said anything to her about it ?" "I used to, at first, but she would not hear of it.

You have no idea how simple she is, and how little she expects anything of the sort.