Duchess.

What—?

Quex.

[Distinctly.] No red fire.

Duchess.

[Chilled.] Is this the something you had to ask of me? [He bows in assent.] I cannot remember ever having seen you in this mood.

Quex.

This is our first actual tête-à-tête since my engagement to Miss Eden.

Duchess.

Oh, I understand.