Eugene nodded, instinctively assuming his most nonchalant air.
"We think he's a bad case. What think you?"
"I agree—at least, I suppose I do. I haven't thought much about it."
Ayre thought the indifference overdone, but he took no notice of it.
"We are inclined to think he ought to be shown that picture. I am clear about it; Morewood doubts. And we are going to refer it to you."
"You'd better leave me out."
"Not at all. You're a friend of his, known him all your life, and you'll know best what will be for his good."
"If you insist on asking me, I think you had better let it alone."
"Wait a minute. Why do you say that?"
"Because it will be a shock to him."