There was a note of irony in the Superintendent's level voice, and at the sound of it Kenneth turned, not put out of countenance, but alert, and with his sullen ill-humour gone in a flash. His eyes held a challenge, his elf-smile reappeared. “A hit, a very palpable hit!” And yet, my friend-the-Superintendent, you would suspect me more if I didn't seem to care whether I inherited Arnold's fortune or not.”
“Perhaps,” Hannasyde acknowledged. “But you should consider whether perhaps I may not suspect you of assuming a greater degree of annoyance than you really feel, on purpose to throw dust in my eyes.” He paused, and then, as Kenneth did not immediately answer him, added gently: “Another hit. What say you?”'
Kenneth laughed, and said with a good deal of delight: “A touch, a touch, I do confess.” You know, I'm beginning to like you quite a lot.”
“I might return that compliment, if it occurs to you to stop trying to hoodwink me. You are fond of quoting from Hamlet (though not always sure of your source), so I will give you one more line to digest: “Take care that you don't become as a woodcock to your own springe'.”
“Ah, justly killed with mine own treachery!” I'll take such care - Osric - that I won't let this conversation alter my attitude by so much as a hair's-breath.”
Roger leaned sideways in his chair to say confidentially to Giles: “It's getting a bit too high-brow for me. Is his name Osric? I thought you said it was Harrington.”
“There is such a thing as being too clever, Mr Vereker.”
“I'll take your word for it. But I am only being honest. Didn't you come here tonight to see how I was reacting to the prodigal's return?”
Hannasyde smiled faintly. Antonia, watching him, said dispassionately: “They bleed on both sides.” I hoped I'd be able to get that one off sooner or later.”
This sally seemed to complete Roger's bewilderment. He had been trying to follow the dialogue, but he gave it up at that point, and shut his eyes.