"I think," he said slowly, "it was because you kissed your hand to Cripps."
"It wasn't only to Mr. Cripps, it was to Mr. Berry and Mr. Hamilton as well."
"Perhaps she thought you did it to attract their attention."
"And what if I did? Would she expect me to pass three nice boys living in the same house with me--though it's little enough I see of them--with my nose in the air and never a word of greeting; and if I hadn't gone up by her nasty old back stairs just to please her, this would never have happened."
"After all," said Mr. Johns, still gazing at Lallie, although she no longer looked at him, "does it matter much what Miss Foster thinks?"
"It doesn't matter to me what she thinks, but what she says does matter. I can't let her insult me in public and take no notice."
"She often," Mr. Johns remarked ruefully, "insults me in public, and I take no notice."
"Well, it's very noble of you, but I can't reach those heights. To be told I'm a vulgar flirt and corrupt--corrupt, mind you--the boys, is more than I'll endure from any stout old woman on this earth. Do you think I'd corrupt any boys, Mr. Johns?"
"I'm quite sure you would always use your great influence in the highest possible way," Mr. Johns said solemnly, "but----"
"But what?" Lallie demanded impatiently as he hesitated.