She shook her head.
"It's ridiculous that I should care. One's self-love, I suppose--that bleeds! Evelyn has made me send out cards for a little house-warming. She said I must. She made me go to that smart party at Chatton House the other night. It was a great mistake. People turned their backs on me. And this, too, will be a mistake--and a failure."
"You were kind enough to send me a card."
"Yes--and you must come?"
She looked at him with a sudden nervous appeal, which made another tug on his self-control.
"Of course I shall come."
"Do you remember your own saying--that awful evening--that I had devoted friends? Well, we shall soon see."
"That depends only on yourself," he replied, with gentle deliberation.
She started--threw him a doubtful look.
"If you mean that I must take a great deal of trouble, I am afraid I can't. I am too tired."