"Well, well, little woman! To go on, my dear. This rock we must leave to time, chance, and hopeful circumstance. We must not shipwreck Ada upon it. She cannot afford, and he cannot afford, the remotest chance of another separation from a friend. Therefore I have particularly begged of Woodcourt, and I now particularly beg of you, my dear, not to move this subject with Rick. Let it rest. Next week, next month, next year, sooner or later, he will see me with clearer eyes. I can wait."
But I had already discussed it with him, I confessed; and so, I thought, had Mr. Woodcourt.

"Well, well, little woman! To go on, my dear. This rock we must leave to time and chance. We must not shipwreck Ada upon it. She cannot afford the chance of another separation from a friend. Therefore I have begged of Woodcourt, and now beg of you, not to raise this subject with Rick. Let it rest. Sooner or later, he will see me with clearer eyes. I can wait."
But I had already discussed it with Rick, I confessed; and so, I thought, had Mr. Woodcourt.
