"It is not my wit which you need ever fear, Alison," Geoffrey's eyes were ardent upon her.
"Why, you are merciful. Or is it modest?"
"I can be neither, Alison. I am a man."
"My dear Geoffrey, I am sorry for all your misfortunes." She turned from him to Mr. Hadley, who was content in a corner. "Have we quarrelled?"
"We never loved each other well enough."
"Is that why I am always very glad to see Mr. Hadley?"
"It is why he can tell Miss Lambourne that she looks divinely beautiful."
"That means inhuman, sir."
"Which is not my fault, ma'am."
Geoffrey was visibly restive at his exclusion, "Charles never could pay a compliment without a sting in it."