“You are my husband's friend?”

“Certainly, Mrs Brood. He is my friend.”

“What is your position here?”

Lydia's face was flaming.

“I thought you knew. I am his secretary, if I may be allowed to dignify my——”

“And you are Frederic's friend?”

“Yes.”

“Despite your position?”

“I don't understand you, Mrs Brood.”

Once more the warm, enchanting smile broke over the face of the other.