"A few people have natures which can't be spoiled," he said. "To them knowledge brings pity or shrinking instead of temptation. I think Miss Graham is to be numbered among these, and she is in good hands with my old friend."
Two or three minutes afterwards, Mrs. Keith resolutely crossed the lawn towards them, but her determined expression softened as she approached Challoner.
"Do you know that I feel neglected?" she said. "Where are those American azaleas you promised to show me?"
Challoner made her an apologetic bow. "Have I been remiss? I saw you with Greythorpe, and understood you found him interesting."
"I've nothing against the man, and he never bores one, but he's a friend of yesterday by comparison; it's only six years since I first met him."
"Ah!" said Challoner; "the old ties are strongest."
Mrs. Keith insisted on examining the azaleas, though they were dry and leafless, and Mrs. Chudleigh, seeing no further opportunity of a quiet talk with Challoner, left them. When she had gone, Mrs. Keith looked at her companion with a twinkle.
"Well," she said, "what do you think of Mrs. Chudleigh?"
"You'll allow me to say that I find her charming? It's a comprehensive word."
"And means anything or nothing. But I understand. You're often only conventional when you think yourself gallant."