"Who hasn't?" said Rivington.
She raised her eyes suddenly and gave him a straight, serious look.
"Are you trying to be complimentary, Knight Errant? Because—don't!"
Rivington blew a cloud of smoke into the air.
"Shouldn't dream of it," he said imperturbably. "I am fully aware that poor relations mustn't presume on their privileges."
She coloured a little, and gave her whole attention to fastening her shoe-lace.
"I didn't mean that," she said, after a moment. "Only—don't think I care for that sort of thing, for, candidly, I don't."
"You needn't be afraid," he answered gravely. "I shall never say anything to you that I don't mean."
She glanced up again with her quick smile.
"Is it a bargain?" she said.