"So many things have happened since I saw you, Jim——" she hesitated, then added daringly, "at the opera. Do you remember Ariane?"
"I think you were in the Barkley's box," he said coolly.
"Your memory is marvellous! In point of fact, I was there. And since then so many, many things have happened that I'd like to compare notes with you—sometime."
"I'm quite ready now," he said.
"Do you think your daily record fit for public scrutiny, Jim?" she laughed.
"I don't mind sharing it with anybody here," he retorted gaily, "if you have no objection."
His voice and hers, and their laughter seemed so perfectly frank that thrust and parry passed as without significance. She and Desboro were still lightly rallying each other; Clydesdale was explaining to Daisy that lapis lazuli was the sapphire of the ancients, while Jacqueline was showing her a bit under a magnifying glass, when the noise of sleighs and motors outside signalled the return of the skating party.
As Desboro passed her, Elena said under her breath: "I want a moment alone with you this evening."
"It's impossible," he motioned with his lips; and passed on with a smile of welcome for his returning guests.
Later, in the billiard room, where they all had gathered before the impromptu dance which usually terminated the evening, Elena found another chance for a word aside: "Jim, I must speak to you alone, please."