Agatha was looking the other way when Fitz came to her, and he was forced to touch her and repeat his desire to be accorded a dance before she became aware of his proximity.
“Certainly,” she answered rather carelessly, “if you want one. I--”--she paused with infinite skill and looked down at her own dress--“I thought I had displeased you.”
Fitz looked slightly surprised.
“What an absurd thing to think!” he said rather lamely.
She glanced up with pert coquetry.
“Then it was only oblivion or indifference.”
“What was only oblivion or indifference?” he asked, still smiling as he compared cards.
“Your very obvious delay in coming,” she answered. “Considering that we have known each other since we were children, it is only natural that I should want to dance with you.”
“Considering that we have known each other since we were children,” he said, repeating her words and tone, “may I have a third?”
“Yes,” with a frank nod. “And”--she paused, and looking round saw Luke going away in the opposite direction with Mrs. Harrington--“and will you take me to have some coffee now? I am engaged for this dance, but no matter.”