"I'm so thankful…. I can't get over your singing like that … I felt—carried away. I shall remember it always." He sighed happily. "I've got so many happy memories to take away."
Valerie sat up straight.
"To take away?" she breathed.
"My dear, I've been here nearly six months already. It's only with an effort that I can remember that I'm your guest. I don't want to go. Drifting along like this is simply perfect, but … there's such a lot to be done … heaps."
"There's plenty of time."
"I know, but—well, look at my clothes, for one thing. I'm not fit to be seen."
The girl breathed again. Then—
"Oh, yes, you are, old chap. Fitter than you think. Besides, you don't have to stay in London because you're going to a tailor."
"I know," said Anthony slowly. "I know. But it isn't only that. You see, my lady, when I came here to your house, it was as a footman…. And I think I'd better leave it as—well, no more than a friend. That's a big enough step, in all conscience. After a little—a very little—I shall come, again, Valerie…."
His fingers closed about hers.