But Beaufort was not to be turned aside; he was bent on business. Fricker, it seemed, was disposed of. He remained. But before he could formulate a beginning to this subject, Trix broke in:—
'I want to get out of these speculations as soon as I can,' she said. 'I don't mind about not making any more money as long as I don't lose any. I'm tired of—of the suspense, and—and so on. And, oh, I won't have anything more to do with the Frickers!'
He looked at her in quick distrust.
'Your views have undergone a considerable change,' he remarked. 'You don't want to speculate? You don't mind about not making any more money?'
Trix looked down and would not meet his eyes.
'Going to live on what you've got?' he asked mockingly. 'Or is it a case of cutting down expenses and retiring to the country?'
'I don't want to discuss my affairs. I've told you what I wish.'
He took a turn across the room and came back. His voice was still calm, but the effort was obvious.
'What's happened?' he asked.
'Nothing,' said Trix.