“Perhaps you would like me to make you say it?” suggested Usk, taking full advantage of his position.
“Do tell, now! Commend me to an Englishman for calm impudence! And what has brought you along just now?”
“I came because I couldn’t stay away any longer. You brought me back, you know you did. I had to see you again.”
“Then I guess you’re going away again right now? You seem to be taking a look to last you a long time.”
“If you’re counting on that, you’ll be disappointed. I shall look at you just as hard however long I stay. I should like to look at you for ever. Your face is never the same for two seconds together.”
“I don’t feel like allowing remarks on my face unless they’re compliments, Lord Usk, and don’t you forget it.”
“And that wasn’t a compliment? Then I’ll show you the difference. Any man may pay you a compliment, do you see? but I may make remarks which are not compliments, because I love you.”
“Then preserve me from being loved, any way! But maybe your sort of love isn’t just the usual sort?”
“Isn’t it? I’m so sorry. Is that better?” Félicia had laid herself open to an obvious retort in the confidence that Usk would not be quick-witted enough to seize the opportunity. “Do you believe that I love you now?” he asked, partially releasing her, “or shall I go on to prove it further?”
“I guess it’s not necessary. I can quite believe it.”