“Oh, Colin, to-morrow?” said she. “So soon?”
He laughed. “To-night if you like,” he said, “though it’s rather late. Of course, if you want to put it off, and have Raymond nosing about you still like a ferret....”
“Don’t!”
“He shan’t then. Now I must go. One kiss, Vi.”
She clung to him. “I’m frightened of Raymond,” she said. “What will he do?”
“Howl like a wounded bear, I suppose. Hullo!”
There was the sound of knocking at the door, and Raymond’s voice:
“Violet,” he said. “May I come in; just to say good-night?”
Colin frowned. “Been listening, probably,” he whispered, “and heard voices.”
Without pause he went to the door, and turned the key and handle together.