Since their parting last autumn they had not set eyes on each other, and for a little while they talked almost as strangers.
"Yates, bring up the tea."
"Oh, but isn't it too early for tea?"
"No. Get it as quickly as you can, Yates. Mrs. Kenion must be ready for tea—after her long drive."
"I came by train. Thank you—I own I should like a cup, if it isn't really troubling you."
"Of course not.... Do take the easy chair."
"This is very comfortable.... But won't you lie down again? I have disturbed you."
"Not in the least. I think it will do me good to sit up. Won't you take off your coat?"
Enid let the fur boa fall back from her slender neck, and undid two buttons of her long grey coat.
"Really," she said, with a little laugh, "it's so cold that I haven't properly thawed yet."