`` If he thought so -- but no -- I am sure he does n't . He 's just coming out here like a martyr going to the stake . He knows he will be expected to propose to me when he gets here . And he knows that I know it too . And he knows and I know that I will be expected to say my very prettiest ` yes . ' '' `` But are you going to say it ? '' asked the Young Man anxiously . The Girl leaned forward . `` No . That is my secret . I am going to say a most emphatic ` no . ' '' `` But wo n't your family make an awful row ? '' `` Of course . But I rather enjoy a row now and then . It stirs up one 's grey matter so nicely . I came out here this afternoon and thought the whole affair over from beginning to end . And I have determined to say ` no . ' '' `` Oh , I would n't make it so irreconcilable as that , '' said the Young Man lightly . `` I 'd leave a loophole of escape . You see , if you were to like him a little better than you expect , it would be awkward to have committed yourself by a rash vow to saying ` no , ' would n't it ? ''
`` I suppose it would , '' said the XXXXX thoughtfully , `` but then , you know , I wo n't change my mind . ''
Girl affair course family loophole martyr matter row secret stake