'Tea? Oh, surely not. It's only just four. I don't think it's good for the servants having tea half-an-hour earlier than usual. It's a little thing—yes, I know that, but I don't believe in it. I like punctuality, regularity—oh, well, of course, dear, if you wish it.'
'No, I don't at all! I thought you might.'
'Oh no. I like punctuality, er—and, as a matter of fact, I had tea at the club.'
Laughing, Edith rang the bell.
Bruce lighted a cigarette, first, with his usual courtesy, asking her permission.
'I'll tell you about that when Woodhouse has gone,' he said mysteriously.
'Oh, can't you tell me anything about it now? I wouldn't have ordered tea if I'd known that!'
He enjoyed keeping her waiting, and was delighted at her interest. He would have made it last longer, but was unable to bear his own suspense; so he said:
'Before I say any more, tell me: where is Madame Frabelle?'