He did not like to suggest the marriage.

You will see when you talk with him after this.

I have very much doubt whether he will have the boldness to speak very directly--" "How absurd!" exclaimed Veronica.

"As though we did not know each other intimately!" "Yes, but that is the man's nature, and I like it in him.

You can easily manage to let him understand at the first word what you have decided.
But if you would tell me first,--especially if you mean to refuse,--it would be better.