I'm going away before very long.

I dare say I shan't see you again before then.' 'Where are you going to ?' 'Abroad.' 'I suppose you'll bring back a foreign wife,' she said with sad scornfulness.
'No, I'm not likely to do that.

I shouldn't wonder if I'm away for some time, though--perhaps a couple of years.' 'Years!' she exclaimed in astonishment.
He laughed.
'That startles you.

I shan't be back in time for your wedding, you see.' She sobbed again, averting her face.
'I shan't ever be married.

I'm one of those wretched things nobody ever cares for.' 'You'll have to show you deserve it.