'I suppose we ought not. I tried very hard, you know I did.... But do you regret?' she said, looking at him suddenly.
'No; I don't regret, but I wish it had happened otherwise.'
'You don't fear anything. Nothing will happen. What can happen?'
'The most terrible things often happen—have happened.'
'Emily may have been fond of me—I think she was; but it was no more than the hysterical caprice of a young girl. Besides, people do not die for love; and I assure you it will be all right. This is not a time for gloomy thoughts.'
'I'll try not to think of her. Well, what were we talking about? I know: about the actress who lived in 17 Fitzroy Street. Tell me about her.'
'She was a real good girl. If she hadn't lent me that five shillings, I don't know where I should be now.'
'Were you very fond of her?'
'No; there never was anything of that sort between us. We were merely friends.'