'The way you speak annoys me very much sometimes,' remarked Trix reflectively.
'Why do you suppose he interested himself in your affairs?'
'I've done what I could.' Her lips shut obstinately. 'If I try to do more I sha'n't help the Frickers and I shall hurt myself.'
'That's candid, at all events.' He smiled a moment. 'Don't be in a hurry to say it to Fricker, though.'
'It'll be best to let the truth dawn on him gradually,' smiled Trix. 'Is that all you wanted to say? Because I'm not dressed, and I promised to be at the Glentorlys' at half-past twelve.'
'No, it's not all I've got to say.'
'Oh, well, be quick then.'
Her indifference was overdone, and Beaufort saw it. A suspicion came into his mind. 'So much for Fricker!' he had said. Did she dare to think of meting out the same cavalier treatment to him?
'I wish you'd attend to me and let that letter alone,' he said in a sudden spasm of irritation.
'As soon as you begin, I'll attend,' retorted Trix; 'but you're not saying anything. You're only saying you're going to say something.' Her manner was annoying; perhaps she would have welcomed the diversion of a little quarrel.