“Excuse me,” said Haller; “I must see my wife before dinner. She is still unwell.”
“Of course,” said Graham hurriedly.
Josette came over to him as Haller went.
“What did he want, that old man?” she whispered.
“He was talking about life and death.”
“Ugh! I do not like him. He makes me shudder. But I must not stay. I came only to tell you that it is all right.”
“When are they going to play?”
“After dinner.” She squeezed his arm. “He is horrible, this man Banat. I would not do this for anyone except you, chéri.”
“You know I am grateful, Josette. I shall make it up to you.”
“Ah, stupid!” She smiled at him fondly. “You must not be so serious.”