Elsbeth laughed too, yet half against her will.
"My poor Alwynne! She hates me to be annoyed with her. It infuriates her. She'll be awfully penitent to-morrow. It's really rather comical, you know. She'll take criticism from any one else—but I must approve implicitly! And you being here didn't improve matters. She was longing to be nice, and I didn't help her. She was quite aware that she was showing you her worst side, and quite unable to get out of the mood. I knew, bless her heart!"
She looked at him with a quick little gesture of appeal.
"Roger—you do understand? That—tantrum—meant nothing. She's such an impulsive child."
"I know. Don't you worry. Besides, it was my fault. I was teasing her all the evening. It was not what she expected. Oh, I'm growing subtle enough to please even you, Elsbeth. You know, she's had rather a full day. Evidently a scorching afternoon with that delightful friend of hers, to start with——"
"Ah?" said Elsbeth, her eyes brightening.
"Oh, yes; she was distinctly chastened. I improved the occasion, and you've about finished her off, the poor old girl! I was expecting that little exhibition."
"I believe—I believe you enjoy upsetting her," began Elsbeth, rather indignantly.
"Of course I do. It's as good as a play!"