"Yet, after hours, you no longer drop in to chat with me."
"Why, yes, I do—"
"Pardon. Not since—the new year began…. Will you permit me a word?"
She inclined her head with undisturbed composure; he went on:
"I have asked you to many theatres, invited you to dine with me, to go with me to many, many places. And, it appeared, that you had always other engagements…. Have I offended you?"
"Of course not. You know I like you immensely—"
"Immensely," he repeated with a smile. "Once there was more of sentiment in your response, Valerie. There is little sentiment in immensity."
She flushed: "I was spoons on you," she said, candidly. "I was silly with you—and very indiscreet…. But I'd rather not recall that—"
"I can not choose but recall it!"
"Nice men forget such things," she said, hastily.