The aim of speech is, after all, only to convey ideas; the Colonel had managed, however clumsily, to convey his idea. Dale frowned, and pretended to laugh.
"How absurd!" he said. "I should resent it if it were not too absurd."
"I'm sure, Bannister, you'll acquit me of any meddling."
"Oh, yes. I'm sorry my guests have given rise, however innocently, to such talk."
"It's most unfortunate. I'm sure nothing more is needed. I hope the ladies are well?"
"Yes, thanks."
"I don't see them here."
"No, they're not here," answered Dale, frowning again.
"I hope we shall see some more of them?"