“And now,” said Clive, settling down comfortably in the third big chair, “tell me about it.” 2 Rose-Ann looked at Felix. “We’re going to be married, that’s all,” said Felix. “Yes,” said Clive reflectively, “people do.” “You think we oughtn’t to?” asked Rose-Ann. Clive rubbed his chin. “I really think it is my duty to make one last, however futile, attempt to dissuade you!” “Why?” asked Felix. “Because,” said Clive smiling, “you are so obviously in love with each other now—so obviously happy, just as you are.” “And you think marriage will spoil that?” Rose-Ann asked. Clive regarded them. “Well,” he said, “how many people do you know whose marital happiness you would be willing to take as your own?” They were silent, Felix annoyed. “I’ don’t know anybody whose happiness _I_ would want,” said Rose-Ann at last. “But—” “But you hope to have something different, and very much better,” said Clive gently, as if speaking to a child. “I suppose it’s foolish,” said Rose-Ann. “I don’t see anything foolish about it,” said Felix defiantly. “What’s your objection to marriage?” Clive turned upon him with mild surprise. “Is this the young man with whom I have had a number of luncheon discussions—in which, if I remember rightly, you spoke eloquently on this same subject?” Rose-Ann turned to Felix inquiringly. “I don’t think you’ve ever told me your views of marriage, Felix,” she said. Clive laughed. “That is what is known in fiction as a sardonic laugh,” he observed. “I trust you recognized it. I will repeat it for you: _Ha, ha!_ Now, Mr. Fay, is your opportunity to explain to your prospective bride your views of marriage.” Felix flushed. “As a matter of fact, Rose-Ann and I have discussed them,” he said. “‘Relic of barbarism,’” quoted Clive with gentle malice. “Of barbarism?” Rose-Ann repeated, puzzled. “Clive and I have the habit of orating to each other on these subjects,” said Felix, “at lunch and whenever we haven’t anything better to do.” “I’ve heard of those luncheon discussions,” said Rose-Ann, “and wished I could have been present. I’d like to hear you,” she said, looking at Clive and then back to Felix. It was, subtly, her defiance to Clive.