“And I live on,” he said grimly. “It’s a queer world.” He looked down at the black dressing gown which hid his useless legs. “Bah, where’s the use of sentiment at this time of day. Anyhow it’s a pleasure to meet you, even though your entrance was a bit of——”
“An intrusion,” smiled Trix.
“I was going to say a surprise,” said Nicholas courteously. “And now you must allow me to give you some tea.”
Trix hesitated.
“Oh, but,” she demurred, “the butler will see me.”
“And a very pleasant sight for him,” responded Nicholas, “if you will permit an old man to pay you a compliment. Besides Jessop is used to holding his tongue.”
Trix laughed.
“That,” she said, “I can quite well imagine.”
Nicholas pressed the electric button attached to the arm of his chair. He watched the door, a curious amusement in his eyes.
Trix attempted an appearance of utter unconcern, nevertheless she could not avoid a reflection or two regarding the butler’s possible views on her presence.