She looked up: “Do you think that was Mr. Smull’s motive?”

“I don’t know, Eris.”

After a pause: “You don’t like him, do you?”

“Not much.”

“Will you tell me why?”

“I’m not quite sure why.... Do you like him, Eris?”

“I’d be ashamed not to.”

“Because he’s kind?”

“Yes.”

“That’s why you say you like me,” observed Annan, smiling.