If his heart had been throbbing and his head burning as Janetta's were just then, he might have known how to answer the question.
"You have come for Julian, I suppose?" she said, a little coldly.
"Yes—in a minute or two. Won't you let me rest for a few minutes after my walk in the broiling sun?"
"Oh, certainly; you shall have some tea, if you like. I am at liberty this afternoon," said Janetta, with a little malice, "as my pupil has just sent me word that she has a headache, and cannot come."
"Who is your pupil this afternoon?" said Wyvis, stroking his black moustache.
"Miss Adair."
He gave her a quick, keen glance, then turned away. She read vexation in his eyes.
"Don't let me trouble you," he said, in a different tone, as she moved towards the door; "I really ought not to stay—I have an engagement or two to fulfill. No tea, thanks. Is Julian ready?"
"In a minute or two I will call him. I want to ask you a question first—if you will let me?"
"All right; go on. That's the way people begin disagreeable subjects, do you know?"