“The lunch,” said Mr. Bennett, “was excellent. Lobsters!” He licked his lips appreciatively.
“And, talking of lobsters,” he went on, “I suppose that boy Bream has told you that I have broken off your engagement?”
“Yes.”
“You don’t seem very upset,” said Mr. Bennett, who was in the mood for a dramatic scene and felt a little disappointed.
“Oh, I’ve become a fatalist on the subject of my engagements.”
“I don’t understand you.”
“Well, I mean, they never seem to come to anything.” Billie gazed wistfully at the counterpane. “Do you know, father, I’m beginning to think that I’m rather impulsive. I wish I didn’t do silly things in such a hurry.”
“I don’t see where the hurry comes in as regards that Mortimer boy. You took ten years to make up your mind.”
“I was not thinking of Bream. Another man.”
“Great Heavens! Are you still imagining yourself in love with young Hignett?”