And I'm not used to not knowing what I think! It's disconcerting. It's
like being taken off your feet and--not set down again. Yet, when I'm
with him--I'm not at all sure I should ever want him nearer than--well,
than three feet away. And he's so insistent--persistent. He wants an
answer--now, by mail."
"Are you ready to give it?"
"No. I'm afraid to give it--at long distance."
"Then do not. You are under no obligation to do that. The test of actual
presence is the only one to apply. Let him wait till he comes home. It
will not hurt him."
She spoke with spirit, and her daughter responded to the tone.
"I know that's the best advice," Roberta said, getting to her feet.
"Mother, you like him?"
"Yes, I have always liked Forbes," said Mrs. Gray, with cordiality.
"Your father likes him, and trusts him, as a man of honour, in his
profession. That is much to say. Whether he is a man who would make you
happy--that is a different question. No one can answer that but
yourself."
"I haven't wanted any one to make me happy." Roberta stood upon the
hearth-rug, a figure of charm among the lights and shadows. "I've been
absorbed in my work--and my play.
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