“Sir?” said Mildred in a tone that plainly indicated disinclination to talk.
“I made a remark about your friends,” said the clerk, “but it does not matter. You have been to the city before have you not?”
“I have, sir,” answered Mildred in a frigid tone. “Is my room ready?”
“Not quite, ma’am. The chambermaid will be in presently. How long will you want the room?” asked the clerk.
“Why do you wish to know?”
“O, merely to know. Sometimes we like to know how long our guests will remain—it is a matter of—of—convenience.”
“I will notify you when I am ready to vacate it,” said Mildred coldly.
“O, yes, of course, you can retain it as long as you wish. I meant no offence. Have you heard the news?”
“What news?” asked Mildred.