“It’s a very good game,” he said. “I have to answer, too—any question you ask.”
Athalia subjected the toe of a ridiculously tiny slipper to a prolonged scrutiny. At length—
“The answer,” she said, “is in the negative.”
“Good,” said Fairfax, marking the excellence of her instep. “I’m seven years older than you. As a matter of fact, I think that’s just about right. Do you agree?”
“I don’t disagree,” said Miss Choate slowly. “Anything between five and ten years. . . . When do I start?”
“When you please,” said Fairfax, comfortably exhaling smoke. “What a sweet pretty leg you’ve got! Do you like my style?”
Miss Choate swallowed.
“You are quick,” she said. “Of course, I’ve never played this before, so——”
“Neither have I,” said Punch. “I give you my word. Er, do you?”
The lady stared into the fire.