“As far as ever society would let her.”
“How—did you know?”
“I—well, weren’t we almost boy and girl together?”
“I wonder you can give yourself the pains to come to spend your precious minutes with me when that sort of woman is within—”
“What, not jealous?” he cried joyously. “And of that passée creature? Why, she isn’t worthy to stoop and tie the latchets of your shoes, as the Scripture saith!”
“Still, I’d rather not be indebted to that lady for anything,” said Winifred.
“But why not? Don’t be excessive, little one. There is no reason, you know.”
“How does she come to know about singing and theatrical people?”
“I don’t know that she does. I only assume it. A woman of the world, cutting a great dash, yet hard up—that kind knows all sorts and conditions of men. I am sure she could help you, and I’ll have a try.”