Read it through once

"Had I known as much half an hour ago--But since I _am_ here,"--speaking with a forced vivacity as he returned to his seat,--"what does it signify?--For once, Miss Dashwood--it will be the last time, perhaps--let us be cheerful together. I am in a fine mood for gaiety. Tell me honestly,"--a deeper glow overspreading his cheeks, "do you think me most a knave or a fool?"