Vainly she waited for enlightenment. Forbes’ answer was a tortured smile. His agonized prayer that she might change the subject was granted all too soon.
“How’s Reggie?”
“I beg pardon.” Forbes’ jaw dropped. His Christian name was Reginald.
“Mr. Forbes. I prefer to call him Reggie. Do you admire him as extravagantly as Agnes does? Then I see I shall be forced to conceal my prejudice to keep peace in the family.”
“Prejudice? You are prejudiced against him?”
“Of course. Such a bundle of perfection.”
“Oh, no.” Forbes spoke with generous earnestness. “He’s not that at all. Just an ordinary good sort.”
“Then you think I shall like him?”
The innocent question stabbed him. “No,” Forbes said after a long pause. “You won’t like him.” In his heart he felt he was understating the case. She would regard him with abhorrence. Every moment this deception continued, even though practised to spare her feelings, added to her righteous grievance. The pain in his voice as he spoke was a surprise to himself.
“He must be a singular person,” mused the girl. “Agnes vows he is perfection. You reassure me by acknowledging him human, and yet you are certain I won’t like him. Or is that because I am so unreasonable?”