“Well, Hilary, I’m mortal glad to have the field clear in this case, because I want you to help me.”
“I don’t think you need any help. Judging from the very brief period of observation vouchsafed to me, the lady herself seems able and willing to help you all she knows.”
“No, but you don’t understand. I mean business here—real serious—”
“Strictly honourable—or—”
The young fellow flushed up.
“If any one else had said that—” he began, indignantly.
“Oh, don’t be an ass. You surely don’t expect me—me, mind—to cotton to heroics in a matter of this kind. What do you know about the woman? Nothing.”
“I don’t care about that I can’t do without her.”
“She can do without you, I expect, eh?”
“She can’t. She told me so.”