Finally the sounds began to get on Evan's nerves. "Don't tire yourself!" he said with bitter politeness.
She stopped, and turning around on the bench waited for him to say something more. Her attitude said plainer than words: "You provoked this situation; very well, it's up to you to save it." This cool defiance in a mere girl, a little one at that, angered Evan past all bearing. He smiled the more, and addressed the other man:
"Fond of music, Mr. Anway?"
"Very," said the other without looking at him.
"What is your favourite piece in Miss Playfair's repertoire—I mean among the songs."
"I have no favourite."
"But don't you think she sings 'Just a Wearyin' for You' and 'Love Unexpressed' with wonderful expression?"
Anway did not answer. Corinna yawned delicately. "You'll have to excuse me," she said. "I have to go to Ridgewood early to-morrow to give lessons."
Anway, better-mannered than Evan—or better-trained, immediately rose. Evan sat tight, smiling mockingly at Corinna. "No, you don't!" the smile said. His conduct was inexcusable of course, but he was beyond caring for that. She had denied him and defied him to his face; let her take the consequences. Anway seeing that Evan wasn't going, sat down again flushing.
"Don't wait for me," said Evan. "I only have to go up-stairs."