“Someone who wanted to appear smart,” answered Colin promptly.
“Do you think you understand women?”
“Heaven forfend! Is thy servant a grey-headed wizard that he should lay claim to such knowledge? Wouldst thou have me bear a burden beyond my years? Besides, if I pretended that I did, you’d only slay me with great despatch and neatness. Do look at that elderly woman occupying four seats!”
“Well, look at the man who has just put his seat in the middle of the gangway and looks daggers at everyone who falls over his chair!... By the by, you know Patricia has announced her determination of coming over to Le Touquet for a few days next week.” She spoke carelessly, but she watched the effect of her words upon him. She could see no change, however. He only nodded cheerily.
“We shall be quite a merry party, shan’t we? She has announced her intention of turning ten complete somersaults on the first green!”
“She’s a dear, isn’t she?”
“Of the first water.” But there was no undue enthusiasm in his tone. “And she’s very devoted to you.”
“Is she? I don’t deserve it.”
“Not in the least. I have been trying to talk her out of it. Quite unsuccessfully, I may add.”
It was really very provoking. He would not be drawn. Did he deliberately refuse her his confidence? Were he and Pat keeping a secret?