‘Just bear that in mind, then. And now that I’ve answered your question, answer mine. What have you heard about her? Or what have you found out?’
She raised her eyes again and again, but in a mocking voice said, ‘Nothing.’
‘You’re telling me a lie.’
‘You’re a brute to say so!’
They exchanged fierce glances, but could not meet each other’s eyes steadily. Crewe, mastering his irritation, said with a careless laugh:
‘All right, I believe you. Didn’t mean to offend you, old chap.’
‘I won’t be called that!’ She was trembling with stormy emotions. ‘You shall treat me decently.’
‘Very well. Old girl, then.’
‘I’m a good deal younger than you are. And I’m a good deal better than you, in every way. I’m a lady, at all events, and you can’t pretend to be a gentleman. You’re a rough, common fellow—’
‘Holloa! Holloa! Draw it mild.’