"You always back your own before anyone else's?" she said.
"Of course," he made prompt reply. "We've pulled off a good many events since Jake took command."
"Yes," she said slowly. "He is a genius with horses."
"Oh, quite useful," said Saltash carelessly. "Well, good night to you both! Many thanks for your kind hospitality! Don't forget the piano at the Castle! Come and go exactly as you like! I will give orders to that effect."
"You are very kind," she said.
But the pleasant intimacy between them was broken. She knew that her refusal to go with him on the morrow had hurt him. He was in a mood to sting at a touch.
She gave him her hand with genuine regret. "Good-bye, Charlie!" she said gently.
He took it with a gesture that made her remember that his mother had been a Frenchwoman. "Good night, ma chère!" he said lightly. "When thou art dreaming, think of me!"
Her faint laugh had a note of bitterness. "But I never dream," she said.
CHAPTER XXIII