The Doctor and Maddy

Now that they were alone, the doctor's courage forsook him, and he
could only stammer out some commonplace remarks about the party,
asking how Maddy Lad enjoyed it, and if she was sure she had entirely
recovered from the effects of her fainting fit. He was not getting on
at all, and it was impossible for him to say anything as he had meant
to say it. Why couldn't she help him, instead of looking so
unsuspiciously at him with those large, bright eyes? Didn't she know
how dear she was to him? He should think she might. She might have
divined it ere this; and if so, why didn't she blush, or something?

At last she came to his aid by saying, "You promised to tell me about
the bracelets and necklace, whether I ought to keep them."

"Yes, oh yes, he believed he did." And getting up from his chair, the
doctor began to walk the floor, the better to hide his confusion.
"Yes, the bracelets. You looked very pretty in them, Maddy, very; but
you are always pretty--ahem--yes. If you were engaged to Guy, I should
say it was proper; but if not, why, I don't know; the fact is, Maddy,
I am not quite certain what I am saying, so you must excuse me. I
almost hated you that day you sent the note, telling me you were
coming to be examined; but I had not seen you then. I did not know
how, after a while--a very little while--I should in all probability--
well, I did; I changed my mind, and I--I guess you have not the
slightest idea what I mean." And stopping suddenly, he confronted the
astonished Maddy, who replied: "Not the slightest, unless you are going crazy."