"It's awfully good of you to introduce me," Sam said, when Mrs. Menire had retired to her room. "I'm more in love with her than ever."
William's heart gave a painful thump, but he answered mildly enough—
"You seemed to get on very well together."
"She was delightfully friendly, but I owe that all to you. She said that any friend of yours was welcome at their house."
"It was very kind of her," William answered slowly. "Did she give you permission to call again?"
"I'm not exactly sure. She did say that any time you brought me along I should be welcome, or words to that effect. So we must arrange another little excursion soon."
"Must we?"
"We must; and what is more, you might, you know, in the meanwhile—that is, if you can honestly do so—that is—you know what I mean, don't you?"
"I don't think I do," William answered, in a tone of mild surprise.
"It's asking a lot, I know," Sam replied, fidgeting uneasily in his chair. "But if you could—that—that is—without compromising yourself in any way, speak a good word for me, it would go miles and miles."