She was in reality perfectly indifferent to it, and merely went through the day’s routine without active dislike, as without intelligence.
“Now that you are used to our ways,” said Mr. Williams deliberately, “I think you had better remove your table into my room. The sound of your machine will not disturb me in the least, and if clients desire a private interview, you can retire.”
Elsie looked up, astonished, and met her employer’s eyes.
His face was impassive as ever, but there was a faint, covetous gleam in his fish-like eyes.
Elsie, at once repelled and fascinated, gazed back at him, and felt her heart beginning to beat faster with a nervous and yet pleasurable anticipation.
VII
“When do you want to take your holiday, Elsie?”
“I’m not particular.”
“Your mother will want you to get a breath of sea-air, I suppose.”
“Oh, I don’t know,” said Elsie. “Mother’s not awfully struck on going away.”