"I know, but they won't believe it. People are so uncharitable."
His face darkened.
"I don't understand you."
She looked a little ashamed.
"It is so late, and for you and I—to be out here alone . . ."
Chris pulled harder at the sculls; he knew there was something in what she said, but he answered doggedly:
"They must believe what they choose, that's all."
She covered her face with her hands.
"I can't face it," she whispered. "I've always hated scandal. And . . . oh, what will your wife think, Chris?"
Chris bit his lip; he had forgotten Marie.