“Yes, I noticed that,” said his aunt. “They still seem rather reluctant.”
“What did I say?” said Cicely, sliding an arm through Toby’s and addressing his aunt. “You see? He’s ashamed of himself. He feels his position. They can’t help it. Where are you staying, Mrs. Medallion?”
“At Pau. Should I like Biarritz?”
“I should come for the day. It’s not very far. I think Pau’s quieter, you know.”
Mrs. Medallion regarded her.
“I heard you ask,” she said, “for a cigarette.”
“I didn’t know you were here,” said Cicely Voile. “I shouldn’t smoke before you, because I’m younger than you and so it’s up to me not to give you offence. I’ve got an aunt called Susan who simply loathes it. So I never smoke before her.”
Mrs. Medallion turned to her companion.
“A very proper spirit,” she said defiantly.
“Admirable,” said Miss Woolly.