With an effort Lucinda shrugged out of her ill-humour.
"No, of course not. With myself, rather, for being a silly. Dobbin: you're a dear."
"I know," he agreed with comic complacence; "but it doesn't get me anywhere."
"You're not very flattering. I don't tell every man he's a dear."
"I'm wondering what the term means to you."
"It means a great deal."
"But what are the privileges and appurtenances of a dear's estate in your esteem? Does it carry the right to take liberties?"
"It might be worth your while to try and find out."
"Well.... It's been a question in my mind ever since last night, and something you said just now.... Is the inference justified, you and Druce aren't getting along too well?"
"Oh, do stop reminding me of Bel! I do so want to forget him for tonight."