"At least," he said, "our intentions were admirable. We were trying to help her."
"We were being very impertinent," affirmed Desire. "Benis told me so this morning."
"Benis told you?" in surprise.
"Well, he didn't exactly tell me. But I am sure he wanted to."
This was too subtle for the doctor. There were times when he frankly admitted his inability to bridge Desire's conversational chasms. He was often puzzled by the things she did not say.
"What was Benis thinking of," he said irritably, "to let you come out in that bread cart?"
Desire laughed. "I hope he was thinking of the Significance of the Totem. But I'm almost sure he wasn't."
"Does he ever think of anything but that blessed book of his?"
"I'm afraid he does—occasionally."
"You mean," with sharpened interest, "that he isn't quite as keen on it as he used to be?"