Arnold was at a loss how to approach Sir Patrick on the subject of his niece without reminding him of his domestic responsibilities on the one hand, and without setting himself up as a target for the shafts of Sir Patrick's wit on the other.
In this difficulty, he committed a mistake at the outset.

He hesitated.
"Don't hurry yourself," said Sir Patrick.

"Collect your ideas.

I can wait! I can wait!" Arnold collected his ideas--and committed a second mistake.

He determined on feeling his way cautiously at first.