"Oh, no," she interrupted, "I can't say he has annoyed me—from his point of view." She laughed. "The man tried to be particularly agreeable, I think."
"And succeeded in being the reverse," Gifford added. "I can quite understand. Still, it might be worse."
"Oh, yes," she agreed in a tone which did nothing to abate his curiosity.
The luncheon bell rang out and they turned.
"I haven't thanked you for looking after our interests, Mr. Gifford," the girl said.
"I have unfortunately been able to do nothing," he replied deprecatingly.
"But you have tried," she rejoined graciously, "and it is not your fault if you have not succeeded. It is a comfort to think that we have a friend at hand ready to help us if need be, and I am most grateful."
The unusual feeling in her tone thrilled him.
"I should love to do something worthy of your gratitude," he responded, in a subdued tone.
"You take a lower view of your service than I do," she rejoined as they reached the house, and no more could be said.