"I am alone too. Shall we console one another?"
"I don't want consolation, thanks," said Kate, a little ungraciously. "But," she added more kindly, "you know I'm always glad of your company."
"I wish I could think so."
"Why don't you think so?"
"Well, Miss Bernard, engaged people are generally rather indifferent to the rest of the world.
"Even to telegrams?"
"Ah! poor Lane!"
"I don't think Mr. Lane is in much need of pity."
"No—rather of envy."
Kate did not look displeased.