“Oh! it is in my head. I don't write much down; that weakens the memory. If you would give me half an hour after luncheon—” She hesitated a little.
Zoe jealoused a te'te-'a-te'te, and parried it skillfully. “Oh,” said she, “but we are all much interested: are not you, Lord Uxmoor?”
“Indeed I am,” said Uxmoor.
“So am I,” said Fanny, who didn't care a button.
“Yes, but,” said Rhoda, “truths are not always agreeable, and there are some that I don't like—” She hesitated again, and this time actually blushed a little.
The acute Mr. Severne, who had been watching her slyly, came to her assistance.
“Look here, old fellow,” said he to Vizard, “don't you see that Miss Gale has discovered some spots in your paradise? but, out of delicacy, does not want to publish them, but to confide them to your own ear. Then you can mend them or not.”
Miss Gale turned her eyes full on Severne. “You are very keen at reading people, sir,” said she, dryly.
“Of course he is,” said Vizard. “He has given great attention to your sex. Well, if that is all, Miss Gale, pray speak out and gratify their curiosity. You and I shall never quarrel over the truth.”
“I'm not so sure of that,” said Miss Gale. “However, I suppose I must risk it. I never do get my own way; that's a fact.”