"No, probably not," she answered gravely. "But go and pretend. There's no harm in that."
"All the same," he said a little eagerly, "it is curious how much brighter and happier I do feel since we came here. It's the getting back to you, Knutty. That is what it is."
"Yes, I can quite believe that," replied Knutty. "There now. They are starting off."
But he still lingered in the porch.
"What sort of nonsense have you been telling Miss Frensham about my researches?" he said, smiling shyly.
"Oh," said Knutty, "I only told her you were engaged on some ridiculous stereo-something investigations. I didn't think it was anything against your moral character."
He still lingered.
"Do you know," he said, "I've been thinking that I shall enlarge my laboratory when I get back. I believe I am going to do a lot of good new work, Knutty."
"I shouldn't wonder," she answered. "A man isn't done for at forty-three."
"No, that's just it," he said brightly. "Well, goodbye for the present."