"Sylvia."
"Yes?" Sylvia had turned, wondering what Jeanette would say, wondering almost more what she herself was going to say.
"Charlton says he gave himself away awhile ago, did he?"
"Rather."
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean you to know for fear it might bother you. Otherwise, of course, I don't mind your knowing. We have been in love for some time. There doesn't seem to be anything to do about it at present."
Jeanette's tone was impersonal. She might as easily have been discussing the relation between the moon and the tides as the relation between herself and Charlton Haynes. The facts existed. That was all apparently. At least all Jeanette cared to admit.
"Couldn't he go away?" asked Sylvia, equally matter of fact.
"He could, but it would make talk if he went before the portrait was done. Besides, I don't want him to go. He offered to. It is I who am keeping him. I hope you are not too much shocked, Sylvia."
"I'm not shocked at all, but I am sorry. Does Jack know?"
"Jack!" For the first time, Jeanette showed a quaver of emotion in her voice. "Jack! Good gracious, no! Why should he? I wouldn't have Jack know for anything. What made you ask that?"