“I understand.”
His laconic reply, followed by flat silence, instead of alleviating, somehow increased her discomfort.
After a moment he spoke. “Ever read ‘Frankenstein,’ Janey?”
“No.”
“Queer tale of a chap who tried to create a superman.”
“Well?” Her brows contracted, puzzled.
“Well—his superman rose up and destroyed him.”
“I fail to see—” The frown deepened.
“Oh, just a flight of fancy. Don’t mind me.” Again his hand struck a flickering match.
“Ought you to smoke so much?” she asked, to fill in the gap. “I shouldn’t think it would be good for—for—”