“Does it? I don’t know why. Tell me, please, what did you do that unhappy night?”
“I went home.”
“Directly?”
“Yes.”
“I telephoned your house about twelve, and was informed you were not at home.”
“They thought I was asleep. I’m sorry, Palla–––”
“I shouldn’t have telephoned so late,” she interrupted, “I’m afraid that it was your mother who answered; and if it was, I received the snub I deserved!”
“Nonsense! It wasn’t meant that way–––”
“I’m afraid it was, Jim. It’s quite all right, though. I won’t do it again.... Am I to see you soon?”
“No, not for a while–––”