"No, I merely wish you to see how foolishly you have acted."
"Was it with such base insinuations against your wife Lady Blanche amused you to night? Do you think it was becoming conduct on your part to listen to such lies being uttered without rebuke?"
I have risen, and, with folded hands and white lips, am looking down upon him.
"Phyllis! How can you suppose that I would listen calmly to any one who could speak evil of you?"
"I can readily suppose anything after what you have said. Is it not worse of you to think evil of me? Flirting! You beyond all people are in a position to acquit me of that. I had plenty of opportunities: did I ever flirt with you?"
"You did not, indeed. I tell you I don't for a moment suspect you of such a thing; only—-"
Here, looking up, we both became aware of Sir Mark's approach. He is still some distance from us.
"Are you engaged to him for this, Phyllis?" asks my husband, in a low hurried tone.
"Yes."
"Don't dance it, then," imploringly. "Say you will not, if only to oblige me."