‘Adela?’ She looked at him as closely as her eyes would let her. ‘Why do you want her?’
‘I asked you where she was. Please to get into the habit of answering my questions at once. It’ll save time in future.’
She seemed about to resent his harshness, but the effort cost her too much. She let her head fall forward almost upon her knees and sobbed unrestrainedly.
Rodman touched her shoulder and shook her, but not roughly.
‘Do not be such an eternal fool!’ he grumbled. ‘Do you know where Adela is or not?’
‘No, I don’t,’ came the smothered reply. Then, raising her head, ‘Why do you think so much about Adela?’
He leaned against the dressing-table and laughed mockingly.
‘That’s the matter, eh? You think I’m after her! Don’t be such a goose.’
‘I’d rather you call me a goose than a fool, Willis.’
‘Why, there’s not much difference. Now if you’ll sit up and behave sensibly, I’ll tell you why I want her.’