'Yes. That is so, isn't it?'
'I don't think there's any engagement,' said Gudrun, coldly.
'That so? Still no developments, Rupert?' he called.
'Where? Matrimonial? No.'
'How's that?' called Gudrun.
Birkin glanced quickly round. There was irritation in his eyes also.
'Why?' he replied. 'What do you think of it, Gudrun?'
'Oh,' she cried, determined to fling her stone also into the pool,
since they had begun, 'I don't think she wants an engagement.
Naturally, she's a bird that prefers the bush.' Gudrun's voice was
clear and gong-like. It reminded Rupert of her father's, so strong and
vibrant.
'And I,' said Birkin, his face playful but yet determined, 'I want a
binding contract, and am not keen on love, particularly free love.'
They were both amused. WHY this public avowal? Gerald seemed suspended
a moment, in amusement.
'Love isn't good enough for you?' he called.
'No!' shouted Birkin.
'Ha, well that's being over-refined,' said Gerald, and the car ran
through the mud.
Pages:
578
579
580
581
582
583
584
585
586
587
588
589
590
591
592
593
594
595
596
597
598
599
600
601
602