Page:The Yellow Book - 01.djvu/191

Rh going now, I may never have a chance again. What do you say?

Lucy.But why shouldn't we be married as arranged, and spend our honeymoon over there?

Harold.Because I want to work.

Lucy.And would my being there prevent you? You used to say you always worked so much better when I was

Harold.But you don't understand. This is different. I want to work hard, and no man could do that on his honeymoon—at least I know I couldn't.

Lucy.No, but— And—and till when did you want to put off our—our marriage? Until your return?

Harold.Well, that would depend on circumstances. You don't suppose I would postpone it for a second, if I could help it; but—Until my return? I hope sincerely that it can be managed then, but, you see, over there I shall be spending money all the time, and not earning a sou, and—and so we might have to wait a little bit longer, just until I could replenish the locker, until I had published and been paid for my new book.

Lucy.But I have given notice to leave at midsummer.

Harold.Has Mrs. Duncan got another governess!

Lucy.No, but

Harold.Then you can stop on, can't you! They will surely be only too delighted to keep you.

Lucy.Yes—I can stop on.[He tries to kiss her.]No, don't; not now.

Harold.And you don't really mind the postponement very much, do you?

Lucy.Not if it will assist you.

Harold.I thought you would say that, I knew you would. It will assist me very much. I shouldn't otherwise suggest it. It Rh