David frowned dubiously and poked his finger through the hole which represented the eye of the king of beasts . `` I do n't know that I can make it plain to you . It is n't very plain to myself . And it is only a vague theory of mine , of course . I can not substantiate it by any facts . In short , Eric , I think it is possible that Kilmeny may speak sometime -- if she ever wants it badly enough . '' `` Wants to ! Why , man , she wants to as badly as it is possible for any one to want anything . She loves me with all her heart and she wo n't marry me because she ca n't speak . Do n't you suppose that a girl under such circumstances would ` want ' to speak as much as any one could ? '' `` Yes , but I do not mean that sort of wanting , no matter how strong the wish may be . What I do mean is -- a sudden , vehement , passionate inrush of desire , physical , psychical , mental , all in one , mighty enough to rend asunder the invisible fetters that hold her speech in bondage . If any occasion should arise to evoke such a desire I believe that Kilmeny would speak -- and having once spoken would thenceforth be normal in that respect -- ay , if she spoke but the one word . '' `` All this sounds like great nonsense to me , '' said Eric restlessly . `` I suppose you have an idea what you are talking about , but I have n't . And , in any case , it practically means that there is no hope for her -- or me . Even if your theory is correct it is not likely such an occasion as you speak of will ever arise . And Kilmeny will never marry me . '' `` Do n't give up so easily , old fellow . There HAVE been cases on record where women have changed their minds . ''
`` Not women XXXXX Kilmeny , '' said Eric miserably .
If as by for in like that through to with