"Guess why I did come," she said. He shook his head lazily. She imparted the rest of her news in little instalments, to give it more emphasis. "It's my half-term holiday," she said again, and paused to watch the effect of her words.
"I think I heard you say that before," he observed.
"And I'm going into the country for the whole day."
"Yes?" said Paul, who did not seem impressed.
"And I want you to come too. There! don't you think it was worth a visit?" Her laugh rang out, and filled the little room. Paul was stroking his beard reflectively, but he did not seem vexed.
"Really, Katharine," he said once more.
"Oh, now, don't be musty," she pleaded, resting her chin on her hands. "I just want to do something jolly to-day; and I've never asked you anything before, have I? Do, please, Mr. Wilton. I won't bother you again for ever so long; I promise you I won't."
"Are you aware," said Paul, frowning, "that it is not customary to come and visit a man in his chambers in this uninvited manner?"
"You know quite well," retorted Katharine, "that nothing ever matters, if I do it."
"Of course I know that you are beyond the taint of scandal, or the—"