'This secret flirting with my companion, Miss Carlyon.'
'I don't flirt with her; and, by Jove, he'd be a pretty clever fellow who could do so.'
'Why?'
'She is so devilish stand-off, grandmother.'
'I am truly glad to hear it.'
'But can't I talk with her? We are old acquaintances, and have naturally much to say to each other.'
'Too much, I fear. You may talk, as you say, but not hover about her.'
'Anything more?' asked Shafto rudely.
'Yes, I wish you to settle down——'
'Oh! and marry Finella?'