The letter complicated matters also by beginning "Dear Jerry," and saying "little Jerry" further on--expressions which stirred him strangely.
"Why do you read this to me ?" he asked, in a voice that broke a little.
"Because you are so wise," she said.

"Do you mind ?" "Do I mind!" he exclaimed bitterly.

("Take care, you idiot!" he said to himself.) "I was asking your advice only.

Is it too much ?" "Not at all.

I am quite the right man to consult at such a moment, am I not ?" It was said with profound meaning; but his face was as usual.
"That is what I thought," she said, in all good faith.
"You do not even understand!" he cried, and he was also looking longingly at his hat.
"Understand what ?" "Jerry," he said, and tried to stop himself, with the result that he added, "dear little Jerry!" ("What am I doing!" he groaned.) She understood now.