"I thought you weren't going to live on the estate?" he said, lifting his eyebrows.
"Not at once—not this winter." She was annoyed to feel herself stammering. "But of course I have a responsibility—"
The kindly laugh in his grey eyes faded.
"Yes—I quite admit that,—a great responsibility," he said slowly. "Do you mind if I mention another subject?"
"The meetings?" she said, quickly. "You mean that?"
"Yes—the meetings. I have just seen the placard in the village."
"Well?" Her loveliness in defiance dazzled him, but he held on stoutly.
"You said nothing to me about these meetings the other day."
"You never asked me!"
He paused a moment.