But--' 'But ?' 'I am not here only to try and keep you in good spirits, am I ?' She asked it prettily, with a smile like that of maidenhood.
'Heaven forbid! I oughtn't to have put it in that absolute way.

I was half joking, you know.

But unfortunately it's true that I can't be as light-spirited as I could wish.

Does that make you impatient with me ?' 'A little.

I can't help the feeling, and I ought to try to overcome it.
But you must try on your side as well.