"I did."
"Very good," he replied. "And now, if I may take the liberty to—"
"Pray don't apologize, Mr. Shears."
The Colonel's crest rose superior to the interruption.
"If I may be permitted," he said, "to repeat my humble question—may I ask, was it your money—that bought—the pictures?"
"It was."
"Your own?"
"My own."
"You are remarkably generous, Miss Primrose."
"I think not," said Letitia, with increasing dignity. "You will pardon me, Mr. Shears, if I continue with my classes. After school I shall be at liberty to discuss the matter. Meanwhile, won't you be seated?"