"Ah, yes, the fellows are rather noisy," he said, carelessly, "but Nell sleeps like a top, and pays no attention—which is the best thing she can do."
"I would not be too sure she slept like a top."
"It's true; women are all hypocrites alike. You never know when you have them," Phil said.
And then there was a pause; for she feared to say anything more lest she should go too far; and he for once in his life was embarrassed, and did not know how to begin what he had to say.
"Well," he said, quickly, getting up, "I must be going. I have business in the city. And now that I find you're satisfied about Nell's health—— By the way, you never show in our rooms; though Nell spends every minute she has to spare here."
"I am a little old perhaps for your friends, Philip, and the room is not too large."
"Well, no," he said, "they are wretched little rooms. Good-by, then; I'm glad you think Nell is all right."
Was this all he meant to say? There was, however, an uncertainty about his step, and by the time he had opened the door he came to a pause, half closed it again, and said, "Oh, by the bye!"
"What is it?" said Mrs. Dennistoun.
He closed the door again and came back half a step. "I almost forgot, I meant to tell you: if you have any money to invest, I could help you to—— The best thing I've heard of for many a day!"