‘I am not sure of that. I know too well what misrepresentation and calumny can do anywhere; and I have been involved in certain difficulties which, if not explained away, might be made accusations—grave accusations.’
‘I make none—I listen to none.’
‘I have become an object of complete indifference, then? You feel no interest in me either way. If I dared, Maude. I should like to ask the date of this change—when it began?’
‘I don’t well know what you mean. There was not, so far as I am aware, anything between us, except a certain esteem and respect, of which convenience was to make something more. Now convenience has broken faith with us, but we are not the less very good friends—excellent friends if you like.’
‘Excellent friends! I could swear to the friendship!’ said he, with a malicious energy.
‘So at least I mean to be,’ said she calmly.
‘I hope it is not I shall fail in the compact. And now, will my quality of friend entitle me to ask one question, Maude?’
‘I am not sure till I hear it.’
‘I might have hoped a better opinion of my discretion; at all events, I will risk my question. What I would ask is, how far Joseph Atlee is mixed up with your judgment of me? Will you tell me this?’
‘I will only tell you, sir, that you are over-vain of that discretion you believe you possess.’