he fell silent , and then with a very evident summoning of all his resources said in determined tones , `` well , then i suppose , if mrs. pemberton will be sensible and not wish you always to be leaving me to go and be with her , and will not expect you always to be having children , and if she will not mind coming back to live in our valley , in new south wales , after we have won the war- '' `` i beg your pardon ! ''