“No, I should call this pleasure,” he assured her, laughing.
“Would you?” She raised her eyebrows. “Ah, but then you’re English.”
“Aren’t you?” asked he.
“Do I look English?”
“I’m not sure.” He hesitated for a second, studying her. “You certainly don’t dress English.”
“Heaven forbid Δ She made a fervent gesture. “I’m a miserable sinner, but at least I’m incapable of that. However, if you were really kind, you’d affect just a little curiosity to know the errand to which you owe my presence.”
“I’m devoured by curiosity,” he declared.
Again she raised her eyebrows. “You are? Then why don’t you show it?”
“Perhaps because I have a sense of humour—amongst other reasons,” he suggested, smiling.
“Well, since you’re devoured by curiosity, you must know,” she began; but broke off suddenly—“Apropos, I wonder whether you could be induced to tell me something.”