Am I old-fashioned ?' he insisted.
'Probably.

Men are very slow in changing their philosophy about women.

I fancy their idea of the maternal relation is firmest fixed of all.' 'We see it a beatitude!' he cried.
'I know,' I said wearily, 'and you never modify the view.' Dacres contemplated the portion of the deck that lay between us.

His eyes were discreetly lowered, but I saw embarrassment and speculation and a hint of criticism in them.
'Tell me more about it,' said he.
'Oh, for heaven's sake don't be sympathetic!' I exclaimed.

'Lend me a little philosophy instead.