`` But you will be , if he comes back and goes properly down on his knees , wo n't you ? '' `` Very likely . '' `` Then you are fond of old Fred ? '' `` I could be , if I tried . '' `` But you do n't intend to try till the proper moment ? Bless my soul , what unearthly prudence ! He 's a good fellow , Amy , but not the man I fancied you 'd like . '' `` He is rich , a gentleman , and has delightful manners , '' began Amy , trying to be quite cool and dignified , but feeling a little ashamed of herself , in spite of the sincerity of her intentions . `` I understand . Queens of society ca n't get on without money , so you mean to make a good match , and start in that way ? Quite right and proper , as the world goes , but it sounds odd from the lips of one of your mother 's girls . '' `` True , nevertheless . '' A short speech , but the quiet decision with which it was uttered contrasted curiously with the young speaker . Laurie felt this instinctively and laid himself down again , with a sense of disappointment which he could not explain . His look and silence , as well as a certain inward self-disapproval , ruffled Amy , and made her resolve to deliver her lecture without delay . `` I wish you 'd do me the favor to rouse yourself a little , '' she said sharply . `` Do it for me , there 's a dear girl . '' `` I could , if I tried . '' and she looked as if she would like doing it in the most summary style . `` Try , then .
I give you leave , '' returned XXXXX , who enjoyed having someone to tease , after his long abstinence from his favorite pastime .
Amy Fred Laurie decision fellow gentleman girl right sincerity spite