"Oh, I say, Countess Strahni," he said, "that's rather rough on a chap. I had to come. It was wiser, you know."
"I care nothing for your wisdom," she said scornfully. "If it is no more firmly seated than your sense of honor, it can be of little value to you or to me."
"I'm sorry. I will try not to interfere with your comfort——"
"You—you arranged this"—as the thought came to her—"this opportunity for a tête-à-tête?"
"The Countess Strahni's conception of a tête-à-tête may differ from mine," he said with a smile.
But his coolness only inflamed her the more.
"You have taken an unpardonable liberty," she said wildly. "You have already passed the bounds of decency or consideration. You have been not only impudent but ridiculous. One service you have done me tonight. I thank you. You may do me another—by getting out at the first station."
He folded his arms and regarded her gravely.
"I regret that that is impossible."
"Why, please?"